As the Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25 heats up, Team India is set to face Australia in the pivotal third Test at the Gabba, Brisbane, starting Saturday, December 14. After a disappointing 10-wicket loss in Adelaide, former Indian cricketer Piyush Chawla has recommended a significant change in India’s playing XI.
The series began with India’s commanding 295-run victory in Perth, but Australia roared back in Adelaide, leveraging their pink-ball expertise to even the series. The focus now shifts to Brisbane, where both teams will aim to seize the upper hand in the five-match series.
Chawla Advocates for Akash Deep
Piyush Chawla has suggested Akash Deep replace Harshit Rana in the Indian lineup while retaining the rest of the playing XI.
India’s Playing XI for 3rd Test By Piyush Chawla:
Yashasvi Jaiswal, KL Rahul, Shubman Gill, Virat Kohli, Rishabh Pant (wk), Rohit Sharma (c), Ravichandran Ashwin, Nitish Kumar Reddy, Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Siraj, and Akash Deep.
India’s pace attack struggled in Adelaide, with Harshit Rana particularly underperforming. While Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammed Siraj picked up four wickets each, Rana went wicketless, conceding runs at an economy of 5.40. This has led to growing calls for a change in the bowling unit.
Manjrekar Cautions Against Dropping Rana
Former cricketer Sanjay Manjrekar has voiced a differing opinion, advising against removing Harshit Rana. Speaking on ESPNcricinfo, Manjrekar suggested Akash Deep could be an option as a fourth seamer on a pace-friendly pitch but warned against replacing Rana outright.
“This bowling lineup with Bumrah, Siraj, and Harshit Rana—or even Akash Deep—will need careful consideration, especially if the Gabba pitch mirrors Adelaide’s flat surface,” said Manjrekar.
Akash Deep’s Rise
Akash Deep has shown promise since his Test debut earlier this year, performing well in series against England, Bangladesh, and New Zealand. The Bengal pacer has taken 10 wickets in five Tests at an average of 25.8, showcasing his ability to step up in high-stakes matches.
The Road Ahead
With the series tied 1-1, the Gabba Test will be crucial for both teams. India will need their senior players like Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli to rediscover their form, while Australia will look to capitalize on their momentum. The remaining Tests are scheduled in Melbourne and Sydney, setting the stage for a thrilling conclusion to the Border-Gavaskar Trophy.
