As India prepares for the second Test of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy in Adelaide, Cheteshwar Pujara has voiced his preference for maintaining the same opening combination that played a key role in India’s commanding 295-run victory in the first Test in Perth.
During the series opener, the partnership of Yashasvi Jaiswal and KL Rahul delivered a solid 201-run stand for the first wicket, laying the groundwork for India’s dominant win. With Rohit Sharma returning as captain for the second Test, however, there has been uncertainty surrounding India’s batting order.
Pujara has suggested that India should stick with the successful opening pair of Rahul and Jaiswal, with Rohit Sharma coming in at No. 3 and Shubman Gill, assuming he is fit, at No. 5. Pujara emphasized that if Rohit prefers to open, then Rahul should be moved to No. 3, with Gill retaining his spot at five.
“I think we should continue with KL and Yashasvi to open, with Rohit at three and Shubman at five,” Pujara said in an interview with ESPNcricinfo. “If Rohit wants to open, then KL should bat at three, but nothing beyond that. KL’s game suits him well at the top, and I hope we don’t make too many changes.”
Pujara also spoke highly of Gill’s ability to bat at No. 5, especially in the red-ball format. “Shubman is ideal for No. 5, as it gives him the opportunity to face the older ball if needed,” Pujara explained. “If we lose a couple of early wickets, he can manage the new ball, but if he comes in later, he can play his natural attacking game. It also gives us the flexibility to save Rishabh Pant for the older ball, where he can really capitalize without facing the new ball.”
Pujara’s comments reflect a balanced approach to India’s batting lineup, ensuring that each player is in a position that maximizes their strengths in the unique conditions of a pink-ball Test. Fans and experts alike will be keen to see if the Indian team management sticks to this strategy when they take the field at the Adelaide Oval for the highly anticipated second Test.