In the first match of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, India makes a strategic decision to bench Ravichandran Ashwin and Ravindra Jadeja in favor of Washington Sundar. KL Rahul and Yashasvi Jaiswal will open the batting, with Devdutt Padikkal making his Test debut at number three. The team will also hope for a return to form from Virat Kohli as they face a tough series against Australia.
India's Strategic Decision to Bench Ashwin and Jadeja in Border-Gavaskar Trophy Opener
In a surprising turn of events, India has opted to bench Ravichandran Ashwin and Ravindra Jadeja, two of its most experienced and accomplished spinners, for the first match of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy against Australia. Instead, Washington Sundar has been drafted into the starting lineup as the lone specialist spinner.
Background
Ashwin and Jadeja have been stalwarts of the Indian Test team for many years, combining for 630 career Test wickets. They played a pivotal role in India's historic Test series win in Australia in 2018-19. However, both bowlers have struggled for form in recent months, with Ashwin averaging 44.64 in his last five Tests and Jadeja averaging 42.85.
Reasons for the Decision
The Indian team management believed that the conditions at the Adelaide Oval, where the first Test is being played, would not suit Ashwin and Jadeja. The pitch is expected to be dry and bouncy, favoring seamers and all-rounders. Washington Sundar, on the other hand, is a finger spinner who can also contribute with the bat, making him a better fit for the conditions.
Impact on the Team
The absence of Ashwin and Jadeja will undoubtedly weaken India's bowling attack. However, the team management believes that the all-round abilities of Sundar and the addition of Shardul Thakur to the bowling lineup will make up for the loss. Additionally, the return of Virat Kohli, who has been in excellent form in limited-overs cricket, will provide a boost to the batting order.
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