It is the fifth and final Test of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy between India and Australia. Indian captain Rohit Sharma is dropped, with vice-captain Jasprit Bumrah taking over. The batting order of India is once again seen crumbling at 143/7. Let’s see what unfolds, Sharma being left out, and the continuing woes of the team.
Batting Order Collapses Again For India
India’s batting malaise didn’t let up as they were crumbling at a vulnerable 143/7, courtesy Australia’s relentless bowling. Rishabh Pant came out as the lone warrior and scored 40 runs with dogged resistance. Shubman Gill, who came back into the XI, could muster 20 runs, while Virat Kohli managed just 17 runs. KL Rahul continued his woeful form by scoring just 4 runs and added to India’s woes.
Middle-order failure mainly reflects that India relies on key match-winners, who have lost their efficiency in this series. Being dominated by Australia, the possibility of an India comeback in this game seems slim.
Rohit Sharma’s Exclusion and Future
Rohit Sharma has been left out of the playing XI, and speculation over his future in Test cricket has gone up. The Indian captain has failed miserably in the entire series so far, scoring just 31 runs in three matches. Reports are doing the rounds that Sharma is considering retirement, and the fifth Test might be the last of his Test career.
But, insiders claim, if India do make it to the final of the World Test Championship, Sharma may still decide to call off retirement and lead one more time. For now, the baton of captaincy has been passed over to Jasprit Bumrah, who faces the Herculean task of inspiring a fighting side.
Shubman Gill Returns to the XI
There is a bit of silver-lining in Shubman Gill coming back to play in the XI for India despite the set of setbacks faced. Shubman batted at no.3 but could not quite capitalize upon and scored just 20 runs. KL Rahul and Yashasvi Jaiswal, meanwhile, did the opening with failure, not managing a good start to the match.
When the team is reeling at 143/7, Jadeja performance goes to show how much India is desperate for consistent contributions from their top and middle-order batsmen.
Bowling Lineup Changes
India’s bowling attack has also undergone changes, with Akashdeep ruled out due to a back injury. His replacement, either Prasidh Krishna or Harshit Rana, will play a crucial role in the team’s attempt to restrict Australia.
India’s Series Performance
India went into the Sydney Test 1-2 down in the five-match series. Although they had a good start with a 295-run win in Perth, the Indian team has failed to carry the momentum forward. Rain helped India save the third Test, which ended in a draw, but Australia dominated the other matches.
India now needs to equalize the series. A 2-2 draw will keep the Border-Gavaskar Trophy for India as defending champions. But judging by their present display, it hardly seems like they can rebound.
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