As the excitement mounts for the World Test Championship (WTC) final between India and Australia, legendary cricketer Sunil Gavaskar has handpicked the star-studded lineup that he believes will dominate the showdown at the Oval. Gavaskar’s expert analysis offers intriguing insights into the team composition, with a particular focus on the wicketkeeper position, where the debate revolves around KS Bharat’s inclusion.
With injuries sidelining Rishabh Pant, India’s first-choice wicketkeeper, and KL Rahul, the backup option, Bharat has emerged as a potential replacement. However, his performance during the ongoing ICC World Test Championship has left questions hanging. Recognizing the importance of a dependable wicketkeeper, especially against the formidable Australian side, Team India has added Ishan Kishan to their already stellar squad for the final.
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Gavaskar’s expert batting lineup begins with the formidable duo of Rohit Sharma and the in-form Shubman Gill opening the innings. The experienced Cheteshwar Pujara and the run-machine Virat Kohli secure the No. 3 and No. 4 spots, respectively, providing a solid foundation for India’s batting prowess.
When it comes to the crucial No. 6 position, Gavaskar carefully weighs his options. The debate centers around Bharat’s incumbency as the consistent performer who has shouldered the wicketkeeping responsibilities throughout the Border-Gavaskar Trophy. In a decisive verdict, the batting maestro leans towards Bharat, acknowledging the ongoing discussions surrounding his inclusion. Gavaskar believes Bharat’s experience will earn him the nod over Ishan Kishan, ultimately cementing his place at No. 6.
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Delving into the pace bowling department, Gavaskar emphasizes the complementary skills of Shardul Thakur, who can provide valuable support to the formidable duo of Mohammed Shami and Mohammed Siraj in the final encounter. As for the No. 7 position, the ever-reliable Ravindra Jadeja, renowned for his all-round abilities, assumes his role as a crucial asset for the Indian team.
In a nod to the conditions and requirements of the game, Gavaskar envisions both Ravichandran Ashwin and Jadeja occupying the No. 7 and No. 8 spots, respectively. The bowling attack further strengthens with the trio of Mohammad Shami, Mohammed Siraj, and the dynamic Shardul Thakur occupying the No. 9, No. 10, and No. 11 positions, respectively.
Gavaskar’s meticulously crafted India XI for the highly-anticipated World Test Championship final against Australia showcases the wealth of talent at India’s disposal:
1. Rohit Sharma (c)
2. Shubman Gill
3. Cheteshwar Pujara
4. Virat Kohli
5. Ajinkya Rahane
6. KS Bharat (wk)
7. Ravindra Jadeja
8. Ravichandran Ashwin
9. Mohammad Shami
10. Mohammed Siraj
11. Shardul Thakur
With Gavaskar’s expert guidance and this powerhouse XI, Team India aims to assert their dominance and etch their names in cricketing history as they go head-to-head against their fierce rivals. The stage is set for an enthralling battle, filled with strategy, skill, and unwavering determination.