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Xtra Time Web Desk: Cheteshwar Pujara, who proved to be a formidable challenge for Pat Cummins and his team during India's previous tours of Australia, may be a surprising inclusion in India's expanded squad for the upcoming five-Test series Down Under. The selectors are set to announce the squad on October 28, and Pujara's wealth of experience could sway Ajit Agarkar and his team to select him. The 36-year-old was the standout performer in the 2018–19 series, amassing 521 runs off 1,258 balls, and again solidified his role in the batting lineup three years later with 271 runs off 928 balls.

Pujara, a 103-Test veteran, faced the most deliveries from Australia's attack, which includes Cummins, Josh Hazlewood, and Mitchell Starc. Although he has not represented India since the World Test Championship final in June last year, his recent performance in the Ranji Trophy, where he scored 234 runs off 383 balls against Chhattisgarh, indicates his hunger for runs.

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Meanwhile, despite his strong showings in the Bangladesh series, Nitish Reddy has been excluded from the T20 squad for South Africa, as he prepares to join the India A squad for a shadow tour of Australia. While Shardul Thakur's experience might be valuable, he has yet to make a significant impact since returning from injury. However, he did play a crucial role during the last tour of Australia, helping India secure a memorable win at the Gabba.

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In terms of pace bowling options, Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Siraj, and Akash Deep are likely to secure their spots in the Test squad. Avesh Khan and Yash Dayal are also contenders. Mohammed Shami, who has declared himself pain-free, may still face fitness challenges as the series kicks off in Perth on November 22.