Former India head coach Ravi Shastri has revealed his playing XI for the upcoming first Test against Australia in Perth, as India prepares to defend the Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) in the final phase of the World Test Championship (WTC). India needs to win the series 4-0 or 4-1 to secure a place in the WTC final.

Ravi Shastri’s India XI selection for the Perth Test

On ‘The ICC Review’, Shastri discussed the choices he would make for the Test, starting with the absence of regular captain Rohit Sharma. Rohit, who is currently in Mumbai celebrating the birth of his second child, is unlikely to play in the first Test. As a result, Shastri suggested that Shubman Gill should open the innings alongside Yashasvi Jaiswal, with KL Rahul coming in at number 3. While Rahul’s form has been under scrutiny, Shastri reckoned he can thrive at this position in the absence of Rohit.

Dhruv Jurel’s inclusion

Shastri also named Dhruv Jurel in the playing XI after the young batter impressed in the India A tour against Australia A. Jurel scored 80 and 68 in his two innings at the Melbourne Cricket Ground, which Shastri feels gives him the confidence to take on the Australians in a crucial series. Jurel, known for his temperament and solid technique, is selected as a specialist batter in the middle order for the Perth Test.

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Spin and pace department choices

Shastri also weighed in on India’s bowling attack for the bouncy Perth conditions. Given the fast pitch at the Optus Stadium, Shastri advocated for playing just one spinner, Ravindra Jadeja, over Ravichandran Ashwin. He noted that while Ashwin offers more with the bat, Jadeja’s all-round skills and control make him a better choice in overseas conditions.

Additionally, Shastri included debutant Nitish Reddy in his XI, suggesting that his all-round ability, including his seam-up bowling, could provide India with an extra option in the fast-bowling department alongside Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Siraj, and Akash Deep.

Ravi Shastri’s XI of Team India for Perth Test

Shubman Gill, Yashasvi Jaiswal, KL Rahul, Virat Kohli, Rishabh Pant, Dhruv Jurel, Ravindra Jadeja/Washington Sundar, Nitish Reddy, Jasprit Bumrah, Akash Deep, Mohammed Siraj

Also READ: AUS vs IND: Suresh Raina names an unexpected choice for Rohit Sharma’s replacement in Perth Test

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