Veteran Indian cricketer Cheteshwar Pujara has proposed a potential reshuffle in India’s batting order ahead of the second Test against Australia in Adelaide, scheduled to begin on December 6. Cheteshwar Pujara suggested that KL Rahul should bat at No. 3 if captain Rohit Sharma decides to continue opening the innings, maintaining a stable and balanced top order. This comes after India’s dominant 295-run victory over Australia in the first Test in Perth, a win that has bolstered the team’s confidence.
In an interview with ESPNCricinfo, Cheteshwar Pujara outlined his thoughts on the batting lineup. He mentioned that if Rohit Sharma opts to open in the second Test, KL Rahul should slot in at No. 3, a position that suits his game style. “KL should bat at No. 3. Nothing later than that. I think he has to bat at the top of the order because it suits his game really well,” said Cheteshwar Pujara. He also highlighted the adaptability of India’s batting lineup, with Yashasvi Jaiswal having established himself as an opener. This allows the team to be flexible depending on Rohit’s position in the batting order.
Cheteshwar Pujara also praised KL Rahul for his performances in the first Test, where he stepped in for the injured Rohit and scored 26 and 77 runs. This adaptability makes KL Rahul a solid candidate for the No. 3 spot if the opening position remains with Rohit.
Cheteshwar Pujara further emphasized the importance of having Shubman Gill bat at No. 5. He explained that this position would allow Gill to handle the new ball early on, should India lose wickets quickly, while also providing the freedom to play his natural game if he comes in later when the ball has softened.
Turning to the bowling attack for the upcoming pink-ball Test, Cheteshwar Pujara supported the idea of retaining the same lineup that performed well in Perth. He commended the efforts of Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Siraj, debutant Harshit Rana, and all-rounder Washington Sundar, who impressed in the first Test. Cheteshwar Pujara noted that Rana, despite his debut, showed composure in challenging conditions, maintaining the right line and length.
On the topic of the spin attack, Cheteshwar Pujara backed Sundar over Ravichandran Ashwin and Ravindra Jadeja, citing Sundar’s all-round capabilities as an essential asset for the team. “Washington can bat well, which could be vital if the lower-middle order needs to contribute,” Cheteshwar Pujara noted.
India will fine-tune its preparations for the Adelaide Test with a two-day practice match against the Prime Minister’s XI in Canberra. With their momentum from the first Test, Cheteshwar Pujara’s suggestions could help India strategize for a competitive and challenging encounter under the lights.
