With the final of the World Test Championship (WTC) just around the corner, the anticipation is building as India prepares to face Australia in a highly-anticipated clash. Ravi Shastri, the former coach of the Indian cricket team, has unveiled his probable playing 11 for the momentous encounter. The inclusion of Ajinkya Rahane, who has been in impressive form during the IPL 2023, has caught the attention of fans and experts alike. However, the absence of fast bowler Jasprit Bumrah is seen as a significant loss for the Indian team.
Ravi Shastri’s probable playing 11 for the World Test Championship final features Rohit Sharma as the captain, leading a well-balanced team. Shubman Gill and Cheteshwar Pujara are expected to provide stability at the top of the batting order. The ever-reliable Virat Kohli, along with the in-form Ajinkya Rahane, will be crucial in the middle order. Their experience and ability to handle pressure will play a vital role in India’s fortunes.
Shastri said, “The way Rahane is timing the ball is fantastic. He is looking at T20 cricket from a different angle. His focus is not on scoring more runs but on spending maximum time on the field. Rahane is scoring runs at an excellent strike rate which augurs well for the Indian team.”
Shastri further stated, “Rahane has told that when you perform well in domestic cricket, you can also make a comeback in the Indian team. He has earned his place in the World Test Championship final. Last time India did very well in England because you (India) had fast bowlers like Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Shami, Shardul Thakur and Mohammed Siraj. However, Shastri is hopeful that this time the team will do well in the final against Australia.”
The presence of all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja adds depth to the batting lineup while providing a valuable spin-bowling option. KS Bharat, the wicketkeeper, is likely to take charge behind the stumps. The bowling attack includes Shardul Thakur, Ravichandran Ashwin, Mohammed Shami, and Mohammed Siraj, who have displayed exceptional skills and consistency in recent matches.
Ravi Shastri’s probable playing 11 for WTC final: Rohit Sharma (Captain), Shubman Gill, Cheteshwar Pujara, Virat Kohli, Ajinkya Rahane, Ravindra Jadeja, KS Bharat (wicketkeeper), Shardul Thakur, Ravichandran Ashwin, Mohammed Shami, Mohammed Siraj
