As the highly anticipated World Test Championship Final draws near, former cricketer Sunil Gavaskar has shared his favored playing XI for the crucial match. While Gavaskar’s selection has sparked a few eyebrows, it reflects the strategic choices he believes will provide the Indian team with the best chance of success. One notable omission from his lineup is a player who recently achieved a remarkable double-century.
Gavaskar selects the seasoned opener Rohit Sharma as his first choice, relying on Sharma’s vast experience and ability to set a solid foundation for the innings. Joining Sharma at the top is the talented young batsman Gill, who has impressed with his technique and composure in recent matches. Known for his resilience and ability to occupy the crease, Pujara is assigned the pivotal number three spot in Gavaskar’s lineup. Recognized as one of the best batters in the world, Kohli takes up the crucial position of number four, bringing his dynamic batting skills and leadership qualities to the team.
Gavaskar places Rahane at number five, acknowledging his valuable contributions as a middle-order batsman and his ability to stabilize the innings during challenging situations. Surprisingly, Gavaskar opts to include KS Bharat, a consistent performer on the domestic circuit, in the middle order. Gavaskar’s decision highlights Bharat’s recent match experience and proficiency as a wicketkeeper, which adds depth to the team’s resources.
While talking on Star Sports, Sunil Gavaskar said,” If I talk about the opening batsman, then it will be Rohit Sharma and Shubman Gill. Cheteshwar Pujara will be number 3, and Virat Kohli will be number 4. Ajinkya Rahane will play at number five. Number 6 But who will play is a big question. I think he will give a chance to KS Bharath because he has played a lot of matches in the recent past. So I would like to keep him at 6.
One of the most unexpected exclusions from Gavaskar’s lineup is Ishaan Kishan, who achieved a remarkable double-century in an ODI match against Bangladesh last year. Despite Kishan’s impressive performance, Gavaskar seems to favor Bharat’s inclusion due to his recent match exposure and superior wicketkeeping skills.
Gavaskar’s analysis highlights Bharat’s extensive match practice and his potential to handle the pressure of a high-stakes encounter. Although Bharat’s batting statistics may not stand out, his proficiency behind the stumps could provide the Indian team with an advantage in terms of team balance and strategic considerations.
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Gavaskar further said, “Jadeja’s arrival at number 7 is certain. Ravichandran Ashwin can come at number 8. At number 9, 10, 11 I will keep Mohammed Shami, Mohammed Siraj and Shardul Thakur.”
Gavaskar’s lineup continues with Ravindra Jadeja at number seven, recognizing his all-around prowess and ability to make valuable contributions with both bat and ball. Ravichandran Ashwin follows at number eight, showcasing his batting skills and outstanding spin-bowling abilities. Mohammed Shami, Mohammed Siraj, and Shardul Thakur complete the playing XI, forming a formidable pace attack with skill and variety.
Sunil Gavaskar’s Possible Playing XI:- Rohit Sharma, Shubman Gill, Cheteshwar Pujara, Virat Kohli, Ajinkya Rahane, KS Bharat, Ravindra Jadeja, Ravichandran Ashwin, Shardul Thakur, Mohammed Shami, Mohammed Siraj
