Team India has been dealt a major blow ahead of the opening Test of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024 against Australia at the Optus Stadium in Perth.
Shubman Gill, one of India’s most reliable batters, has been ruled out of the match due to a fractured left thumb sustained while attempting a catch during an intra-squad match against India A.
Adding to the challenges, skipper Rohit Sharma – recently becoming father for the second time – will also miss the first Test, leaving India’s batting order in need of significant reshuffling. Gill’s absence comes as a setback to the visitors, who were counting on his recent form to anchor the top order.
During the same intra-squad game, several other key players, including KL Rahul, Sarfaraz Khan and Virat Kohli, suffered injuries. While Kohli underwent scans and KL Rahul left the field after being hit on the elbow, both players are expected to recover in time. However, the situation has prompted the team management to consider reinforcements from the India A squad.
Among the potential candidates to replace Gill, left-handers Devdutt Padikkal and Sai Sudharsan have emerged as frontrunners. Both players showcased commendable performances against Australia A, bolstering their chances of being included in the senior team.
“Team management will take a call, but there is a possibility of Sai or Devdutt staying back. Despite the presence of Abhimanyu Easwaran, the decision-makers don’t want to take a risk,” a close close to the development was quoted as saying to TOI.
Padikkal, who made his Test debut earlier this year against England in Dharamsala, brings international experience and a steady technique to the table. On the other hand, Sudharsan’s domestic exploits, including a recent double century against Delhi and a fifty against Saurashtra, make him a strong contender for a Test debut.
India faces a crucial decision as they finalize their squad for the series opener, which begins on November 22. The Perth pitch, known for its pace and bounce, will demand a robust batting lineup capable of countering Australia’s formidable bowling attack.
As the countdown to the Border-Gavaskar Trophy begins, the Indian team management’s selection strategy will play a pivotal role in determining their fortunes in this high-stakes series.
