India’s cricket team heads to Brisbane for the third Test of their series against Australia, with significant concerns over the form of captain Rohit Sharma and the fitness of key bowler Jasprit Bumrah.
Rohit, who missed India’s dominant win in Perth due to the birth of his son, struggled in the second Test in Adelaide, scoring only nine runs as India suffered a heavy 10-wicket defeat. His poor form has led to growing criticism, with many questioning his place in the team and his effectiveness as captain. His performance has sparked debates about his position in the batting order, and his leadership has also come under scrutiny following tactical mistakes during the Adelaide loss.
Meanwhile, Bumrah’s injury scare has added to India’s worries. After taking four wickets in Adelaide, Bumrah pulled up injured while bowling, clutching his inner thigh. Though the injury was diagnosed as cramp, the paceman did not bowl in training until a brief session on Thursday. There are concerns that if Bumrah is unavailable for the Brisbane Test, India may struggle to win, with former Australian captain Ricky Ponting stating that India’s chances would be slim without him.
India may consider further changes following their defeat in Adelaide. Harshit Rana’s disappointing performance in the second Test has raised the possibility of recalling five-test paceman Akash Deep. Additionally, the selectors might replace Ravichandran Ashwin with Ravindra Jadeja, with Ashwin’s lone wicket in Adelaide not enough to justify his place.
Australia, on the other hand, are in a more stable position but face their own selection dilemma. Paceman Scott Boland impressed with the pink ball in Adelaide, but Josh Hazlewood, recovering from a side injury, may be brought back into the fold. All-rounder Mitchell Marsh, who also returned to form following a back injury, has indicated that he is ready to contribute in whatever capacity required by captain Pat Cummins.
Australia's recent success in Adelaide has renewed their confidence, but memories of the 2021 Gabba Test, where India defeated them in a thrilling finish to claim the series 2-1, remain fresh. That loss ended Australia’s 33-year unbeaten run at the Gabba, and the upcoming match in Brisbane is expected to carry significant weight, particularly for India’s hopes in the World Test Championship (WTC). A loss for India would seriously damage their chances of reaching the WTC final, while Australia could inch closer to a place in the decider.
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