India are set to clash with Australia in the third Test of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25 at the Gabba in Brisbane, commencing on December 14, 2024. Following a disappointing ten-wicket defeat in the Pink Ball Test, the Indian team is eager to rebound and take the lead in the series, which is currently tied at 1-1. With both teams vying for supremacy, the stakes are high, and changes to India’s lineup could be pivotal.

Cheteshwar Pujara’s strategic suggestion to change the playing XI

In light of the recent loss, veteran batter Cheteshwar Pujara has proposed a significant alteration to India’s playing XI. He advocates for Washington Sundar to replace Ravichandran Ashwin, citing Ashwin’s underwhelming performance in Adelaide where he managed only one wicket for 53 runs across 18 overs. Pujara believes that Sundar’s all-round capabilities could bolster India’s batting order while providing a reliable off-spin option. Sundar’s previous contributions during India’s historic win at the Gabba in 2021 further strengthen his case, as he played a crucial role with both bat and ball during that memorable match.

“I feel only one change might happen. Since the batting wasn’t good, Washington Sundar can come in place of R Ashwin. Should someone come in place of Harshit Rana? In my opinion, no. You backed him and he performed well in the first match,” Pujara stated on Star Sports.

Also READ: AUS vs IND: Harbhajan Singh names two changes in the Indian team for Brisbane Test

Pujara stands by Harshit Rana for the upcoming Test

Despite some skepticism surrounding Harshit Rana‘s performance in Adelaide – where he conceded 86 runs in 16 overs – Pujara has come to his defense. Rana had made an impressive debut in Perth with figures of 3/48 and has shown promise with his ability to generate bounce and pace. Pujara argues that Rana deserves another chance, especially on the lively Brisbane pitch, which could favour his bowling style. Retaining Rana could be a strategic move for India as they aim to exploit the conditions at the Gabba.

“He is a good bowler. You cannot drop him just because one match went bad,” he added.

The Gabba: A fortress for Australia

The Gabba has historically been a challenging venue for visiting teams, with Australia boasting an impressive record there, particularly before Christmas. The pitch curator has indicated that this Test will feature a traditional Gabba wicket known for its pace and bounce, which could pose difficulties for Indian batters if they do not adapt quickly. India’s last victory at this ground came in January 2021 when they broke Australia’s long-standing unbeaten streak. The memories of that match serve as both inspiration and pressure as they prepare for this crucial encounter.

Pujara’s India XI for the 3^rd Test

Yashasvi Jaiswal, KL Rahul, Shubman Gill, Virat Kohli, Rishabh Pant (wk), Rohit Sharma (c), Nitish Kumar Reddy, Washingtons Sundar, Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Siraj, Harshit Rana

Also READ: AUS vs IND: 3 reasons why India should include Washington Sundar in their playing XI for the Brisbane Test

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