Legendary Indian batter Sunil Gavaskar believes the current Indian Test team heavily relies on fast-bowling spearhead Jasprit Bumrah to lead the attack. Bumrah is the top wicket-taker in the ongoing Border-Gavaskar Trophy series, having claimed 12 wickets in two matches. However, Gavaskar noted that Bumrah has not received much support from the other fast bowlers in the squad.
“Yes, to a great extent, India is dependent on Bumrah,” Gavaskar told Star Sports. “Mohammed Siraj is a good foil, but he needs to start picking up five wickets in an innings. Otherwise, the load is mainly being carried by Bumrah.”
Bumrah Needs More Support From Fellow Fast Bowlers
Gavaskar emphasized the importance of Siraj’s role in supporting Bumrah. “If Siraj can take two or three wickets and break partnerships, he will definitely ease the pressure on Bumrah,” he added. “Harshit Rana, the newcomer, bowled well in Perth but struggled in Adelaide. Perhaps he couldn’t find his rhythm in the second match, which affected his line and length.”
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Gavaskar remains hopeful that Rana will improve and help ease Bumrah’s workload. “If Rana learns from his experience, it will make it easier for Bumrah to bowl in short bursts of four or five overs, increasing his effectiveness,” Gavaskar concluded.
Debate Over India’s Spinner For Third Test: Ashwin Or Washington Sundar?
Ahead of the third Test, starting December 14 in Brisbane, former off-spinner Harbhajan Singh suggested that India should consider bringing in Washington Sundar in place of Ravichandran Ashwin. Ashwin had a limited impact in the second game at Adelaide, picking up just one wicket of Mitchell Marsh and failing to contribute much with the bat.
“If India needs to play a spinner, they should look at Washington Sundar,” Harbhajan said. “He performed well in Perth, and his bowling was also effective. He showed confidence in the series against New Zealand as well.”
Cheteshwar Pujara Agrees With Harbhajan’s Suggestion
Veteran batter Cheteshwar Pujara supported Harbhajan’s views, agreeing that Sundar could be a better option for strengthening India’s batting. “Washington can replace Ashwin if they want more batting strength,” Pujara said. “There is no comparison in bowling; Ashwin is an excellent bowler. But if they need extra batting depth, Sundar should play.”
Piyush Chawla Sticks with Ashwin for Brisbane Test
However, veteran leg-spinner Piyush Chawla disagreed, arguing that Ashwin should remain in the playing XI for the Brisbane Test. “Ashwin bowled well in the second Test, keeping the Australian batsmen in check. He conceded only 50 runs in 18 overs and took one wicket. There’s no need for a change,” Chawla explained. “After losing one Test match, making too many changes can create problems.”
Deep Dasgupta Calls for Consistency in Playing XI
Former India wicketkeeper-batter Deep Dasgupta also stressed the importance of consistency in team selection. “Changing players too frequently, like Washington in the first Test and Ashwin in the second, isn’t ideal,” Dasgupta said. “If you want to get the best out of players, they need security. In that sense, I’d stick with Ashwin for this Test match.”
As the Indian team prepares for the crucial third Test, the debate over player selection continues, with opinions varying on whether to persist with Ashwin or give Sundar a chance. One thing is clear – India needs a consistent and balanced approach to their playing XI if they are to challenge Australia in the upcoming match.
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