IND vs AUS: Rohit Sharma Wins Toss, Makes Key Changes for Gabba Test

The much-awaited India vs Australia Test series continues at The Gabba, Brisbane, with both teams making crucial decisions ahead of the third Test. On December 14, Indian skipper Rohit Sharma won the toss and opted to bowl first, a decision influenced by the overcast conditions and the soft, grassy pitch. With both teams having performed well in the previous games, this match is set to be a pivotal one.

Key Changes in India’s Playing XI

Rohit made two significant changes to the playing XI. Harshit Rana and Ravichandran Ashwin were replaced by Akash Deep and Ravindra Jadeja, both of whom will be making their first appearances in this Test series. Jadeja’s return brings strength to the Indian bowling attack, while Akash Deep’s inclusion adds fresh energy to the pace department. Both players will be crucial in utilizing the conditions to their advantage.

Rohit explained his decision, saying, “We’re going to bowl first. Little bit overcast and little bit of grass, looks a bit soft as well, want to make best use of the conditions. It will get better to bat as it goes on.”

The Indian skipper also emphasized the importance of capitalizing on key moments in this match, referring to the missed opportunities in the previous game, which contributed to India’s loss. With a refreshed squad, India is determined to bounce back and take advantage of the early conditions at The Gabba.

Australia’s Line-up and Strategy

On the other hand, Australian captain Pat Cummins made just one change to his side, bringing in the fit-again Josh Hazlewood in place of Scott Boland. This change strengthens Australia’s fast-bowling attack, especially with the overcast conditions that favor seam movement.

“We would’ve bowled first too,” Cummins said after the toss. “Been a fantastic series so far… Early finish in Adelaide allowed us to come up here early and get settled.” Australia, having had a solid lead-up to the Test, will look to continue their momentum and put India under pressure right from the start.

Both Teams Set for a Big Clash

With the toss out of the way and both teams having made their strategies clear, all eyes will be on The Gabba, a ground known for its pace and bounce. India’s decision to bowl first shows their confidence in exploiting the conditions early, while Australia will rely on their strong bowling attack to challenge the Indian batsmen.

India’s Playing XI:

Yashasvi Jaiswal

KL Rahul

Shubman Gill

Virat Kohli

Rishabh Pant (w)

Rohit Sharma (c)

Ravindra Jadeja

Nitish Kumar Reddy

Jasprit Bumrah

Mohammed Siraj

Akash Deep

Australia’s Playing XI:

Usman Khawaja

Nathan McSweeney

Marnus Labuschagne

Steven Smith

Travis Head

Mitchell Marsh

Alex Carey (w)

Pat Cummins (c)

Mitchell Starc

Nathan Lyon

Josh Hazlewood

What to Expect

As India sets out to recover from their previous loss, they’ll need to make the most of their bowling attack, with key players like Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammed Siraj expected to lead the charge. Meanwhile, Australia’s formidable line-up will look to assert dominance, with batters like Marnus Labuschagne and Steve Smith poised to capitalize on any scoring opportunities.

This Test promises to be a thrilling contest, with both teams eager to get ahead in the series. The weather conditions and pitch at The Gabba are expected to play a major role, and how each team adapts to these elements could be the key to success in this crucial match.