Big Picture: A Crucial Test for Australia
The upcoming pink-ball Test in Adelaide will determine how this series unfolds. Was India’s big win in Perth just a rare off-performance for Australia, or is it a sign of deeper problems for the home side? We’ll soon find out.
For Australia, a win is essential to avoid a daunting comeback scenario. Only Don Bradman’s team in 1936-37 has ever overturned a 2-0 deficit in a five-match series. On the other hand, if India secures another victory, they’ll be well on their way to dominating the series.
India’s Challenges and Changes
Despite their dominant 295-run win in Perth, India faces a few adjustments. This will be their first day-night Test in over two years, and KL Rahul admitted the pink ball presents unique challenges. Rohit Sharma returns as captain, while Shubman Gill is expected to slot into the top order, leading to a reshuffle in the batting lineup.
It’s surprising that spin maestros R. Ashwin and Ravindra Jadeja sat out the last game, but India’s strength in depth gives them flexibility in team selection.
Australia’s Dilemma
Australia has their own concerns. Josh Hazlewood is out due to injury, and Scott Boland will replace him. Questions remain over how much Mitchell Marsh can contribute with the ball. However, Australia’s biggest challenge is bouncing back from a heavy defeat and meeting high expectations at home.
Captain Pat Cummins acknowledges the pressure:
“There’s always pressure in Tests, especially when you’re down. But we’ve been here before, and we know how to respond.”
Players in the Spotlight
Pat Cummins: The Australian captain didn’t have a significant impact in the Perth Test, but with Hazlewood out, he’ll need to lead the bowling attack. Cummins remains confident in his rhythm and preparation.
Rohit Sharma: Back in action after the birth of his second child, Rohit will bat in the middle order. With a top score of just 52 in his last 10 innings, critics will watch closely to see if he can regain form.
Team Lineups
Australia:
- Usman Khawaja
- Nathan McSweeney
- Marnus Labuschagne
- Steven Smith
- Travis Head
- Mitchell Marsh
- Alex Carey (wk)
- Pat Cummins (capt)
- Mitchell Starc
- Nathan Lyon
- Scott Boland
India (Predicted):
- Yashasvi Jaiswal
- KL Rahul
- Shubman Gill
- Virat Kohli
- Rohit Sharma (capt)
- Rishabh Pant (wk)
- Washington Sundar
- Nitesh Kumar Reddy
- Harshit Rana
- Jasprit Bumrah
- Mohammed Siraj
Pitch and Conditions
The Adelaide Oval pitch will have 6mm of grass, similar to previous pink-ball Tests. Expect the ball to swing under lights. Showers and thunderstorms are forecast for the first two days, but the weather should clear afterward, allowing for a full contest.
Key Stats and Trivia
- Australia has won all seven of their day-night Tests in Adelaide.
- Jasprit Bumrah needs just one wicket to become the first bowler to reach 50 Test wickets in 2024.
- If Virat Kohli scores another century in Adelaide, he will be the first overseas batter to achieve four tons at the venue.
Final Thoughts
This pink-ball Test promises high drama. Can India tighten their grip on the series, or will Australia bounce back? Stay tuned for an exciting clash under the lights at Adelaide Oval!
