IND vs ENG: Potential Debuts & Sundar Returns for 2nd Test Against England
IND vs ENG: With injuries to key players KL Rahul and Ravindra Jadeja, India’s lineup for the 2nd Test against England in Visakhapatnam is facing a shake-up. This opens the door for exciting possibilities, including possible debuts for Rajat Patidar and Sarfaraz Khan, and the welcome return of Washington Sundar.
Patidar, the Man in Waiting:
Despite being called as a late cover for Virat Kohli, Patidar is now the frontrunner to fill the No. 4 slot vacated by Rahul. His impressive performances against the England Lions, with two centuries in practice matches, have certainly solidified his claim. Patidar boasts a stellar domestic record, averaging over 45 in First-Class matches and amassing 12 tons. His strong technique and ability to handle spin make him a perfect fit for the middle order.
Sarfaraz’s Long-Awaited Moment?:
The talented Sarfaraz Khan finally finds himself on the cusp of Test cricket after years of consistent domestic dominance. His inclusion in the squad was met with widespread applause, and a debut in Vizag would be a dream come true for the 26-year-old. While Patidar is in pole position, Sarfaraz’s experience and grit could still earn him a chance, especially if India opts for a dual debut alongside Patidar.
Sundar’s Timely Return:
The versatile Washington Sundar bolsters the all-rounder department, filling the void left by Jadeja’s hamstring injury. Sundar’s skills with bat and ball, coupled with his exceptional fielding, make him a valuable asset in any format. He offers crucial spin options alongside Axar Patel and can contribute valuable runs down the order.
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IND vs ENG: Possible XI Combinations:
- Patidar & Sundar Debut: Rohit Sharma, Shubman Gill, Mayank Agarwal, Rajat Patidar, Hanuma Vihari, Shreyas Iyer, Rishabh Pant (wk), Axar Patel, Washington Sundar, Mohammed Shami, Umesh Yadav.
- Dual Debut: Same as above, but replace Sundar with Sarfaraz Khan.
- Experienced Backup: Patidar replaces Rahul, while the experienced Saurabh Kumar comes in for Jadeja as a like-for-like spin bowling replacement.
The final XI will be announced closer to the match, and the captain’s decision will depend on various factors, including pitch conditions, England’s bowling attack, and the team’s overall balance. Regardless of the choices, one thing is certain: the 2nd Test promises to be an exciting affair with new faces vying for their place in Indian cricket history.
DISCLAIMER: This team is based on the understanding, analysis, and instinct of the author. While selecting your team, consider the points mentioned and make your own decision.
