India head coach Gautam Gambhir hinted at the likely India vs Bangladesh first Test playing XI.
Ahead of the first Test against Bangladesh, India head coach Gautam Gambhir on Wednesday all but confirmed the team’s playing XI for the test match in Chennai. Speaking to the media, Gambhir emphasized that Bangladesh must adapt to spin-friendly conditions, even though the match will be played on a red-soil track known to favour fast bowlers.
Gambhir provided insights into India’s likely line-up and playing XI for the first test, hinting that Rishabh Pant and KL Rahul will secure spots in the playing XI, leaving young talents Sarfaraz Khan and Dhruv Jurel waiting for opportunities. Both Sarfaraz and Jurel made their Test debuts earlier this year during the series against England.
“We don’t drop anyone. We simply pick the players who best fit the XI. Jurel is a phenomenal player, but with Pant returning, some players have to wait. The same goes for Sarfaraz. There will be opportunities, and they have to wait,” Gambhir said during the pre-match press conference.
Gambhir Praises Spin-Duo Ashwin and Jadeja
The head coach also praised the impact of India’s spin duo, Ravichandran Ashwin and Ravindra Jadeja, signaling that they will lead a three-man spin attack alongside Kuldeep Yadav.
“Their impact on both Day 1 and Day 5 is crucial. You can’t predict which day they’ll be more effective, but we’re fortunate to have both Ashwin and Jadeja, who can bowl defensively and attack when needed,” Gambhir added.
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India, led by captain Rohit Sharma, will take on Bangladesh in the first Test of the two-match series at the M.A. Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai, starting September 19.
Last Updated on September 18, 2024
