Former Australian cricketer Ian Chappell on Sunday said that Rohit Sharma’s Indian team must focus on keeping Jasprit Bumrah and Rishabh Pant in shape for the upcoming matches. Rohit Sharma’s India recorded a thumping 280-run win over Bangladesh in the first Test match at the MA Chidambaram Stadium on Sunday. India currently sits at the top of the WTC standings. The upcoming WTC series include New Zealand (three Tests at home) and Australia (five Tests away). Writing in his column for ESPNcricinfo, Chappell said India’s main target should be to get more players fit.
“India’s main aim will be to get as many players fit as possible whilst avoiding any major injuries. However, the focus must be on ensuring Jasprit Bumrah and Rishabh Pant are fit,” Chappell said.
The former cricketer added that Pant’s evolution from a questionable keeper against spinners to an accomplished gloveman is a testament to his dedication.
“A keeper who fulfils these requirements not only strengthens the team’s defence but also allows the slip fielder to cover more ground. Prior to his serious injury, Pant’s position at stumps has improved significantly following Shastri’s ultimatum. His evolution from a questionable keeper in a spin attack to an accomplished gloveman at stumps shows his dedication,” he added.
In the coming days, Australia will take on India in the prestigious Border-Gavaskar Trophy.
The most awaited Border-Gavaskar series between India and Australia will begin on November 22 in Perth with the first Test match.
The second Test, which will be played at the Adelaide Oval from December 6 to 10, will feature an exciting day-night format match under the stadium lights, after which fans can turn their attention to the third Test, which will be played at The Gabba in Brisbane from December 14 to 18.
The series will reach its penultimate stage with the traditional Boxing Day Test, which will be played at the prestigious Melbourne Cricket Ground in Melbourne from December 26-30.
The fifth and final match, to be played at the Sydney Cricket Ground from 3-7 January, will be the climax of the series and is expected to provide a dramatic conclusion to an exciting series of matches.
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