India’s Playing Xi Puzzle Without Shubman Gill: Sai Sudharsan, Nitish Kumar Reddy in Contention; Axar Pat

India’s Playing XI Puzzle Without Shubman Gill: Sai Sudharsan, Nitish Kumar Reddy In Contention; Axar Patel Likely To Sit Out

India has faced a significant setback ahead of their second Test against South Africa in Guwahati. Captain Shubman Gill, who had been traveling with the team due to his improving condition, will miss the match due to ongoing concerns over his fitness.

Decision Behind Gill’s Omission

The Indian cricket board has decided against risking Gill’s health further. Despite showing signs of recovery and having plans to test his fitness in the nets, the BCCI medical team concluded that he is still not at a point where he can safely take part in the match. This decision comes after India lost the first Test 1-0, making it crucial for them to reassess their playing XI.

Impact on Team Dynamics

Rishabh Pant will step up as captain for this crucial game. The team faces tough decisions in selecting their starting eleven, particularly in light of Gill’s absence. Sai Sudharsan and Nitish Kumar Reddy have emerged as contenders to replace the batting prowess that Shubman Gill would provide.

Playing XI Contenders

Sai Sudharsan, who was initially overlooked for the Kolkata Test due to the inclusion of an extra spinner in Axar Patel, could now find himself in the playing XI. Similarly, Nitish Kumar Reddy’s return to the squad ahead of schedule has put him in contention for a significant role.

There is a strong temptation to play both Sudharsan and Reddy, which might push Axar Patel back onto the bench. The team management will closely monitor the pitch conditions before making their final decision on this combination.

Pitch Conditions

The pitch at Barsapara Stadium in Guwahati continues to have a green tinge but is expected to be prepared for the match by shaving off excess grass. This preparation aims to provide a surface that offers turn and bounce, making it challenging for batsmen.

Team Management’s Approach

Batting coach Sitanshu Kotak maintained his cards close during the press conference, expressing no clear inclination towards any particular player. When asked about playing a right-hander in the absence of Gill, Kotak emphasized the importance of balanced team selection.

“You tell me one thing, they had a left-arm spinner also,” he stated. “If we had seven right-handed batsmen, then? They had a left-arm spinner also, and an off-spinner also.

I believe that you have to play well. Off-spinner bowling to left-hander does not mean left-hander has to get out. We had two left-arm spinners in the first Test, they had nine right-handers; did they get out?

So maybe that thing is a little overrated,” Kotak added.

The Indian team will be keen to regroup and prepare for this must-win game against South Africa. The absence of Gill adds an extra layer of complexity to their strategy but also creates opportunities for other players to shine in the upcoming Test series.