BGT 2024-25: These players to stay as batting back-ups for Australia series? Find out who
Xtra Time Web Desk: Ahead of the first Test against Australia, starting November 22 in Perth, the Indian team management has decided to keep Devdutt Padikkal and B Sai Sudharsan in Australia as batting back-ups. Padikkal, who was part of India A's recent tour to Australia, had a mixed performance in the four-day matches, scoring 36, 88, 26, and 1. Despite his lukewarm outings, the left-handed batter remains in the squad due to his familiarity with Australian conditions. Padikkal had also been named in Karnataka's squad for the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy but will stay on as cover for the senior team.
B Sai Sudharsan, another promising top-order batter, is also likely to remain in Australia. Sudharsan made an impression during the A tour, particularly with his century in the first match against Australia A at Mackay. The India A squad, led by Ruturaj Gaikwad, is scheduled to leave Australia on Monday, but Sudharsan may stay behind given his recent exposure to the local conditions, which could be crucial for India’s preparations.
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KL Rahul's Fitness Relief In a positive update for the Indian team, KL Rahul batted without discomfort during a three-hour net session on Sunday, easing concerns over his fitness. Rahul had earlier sustained an elbow injury while batting in an intra-squad practice match. However, the 32-year-old participated fully in drills at the WACA ground, signaling he is fit for the upcoming Test. With *Shubman Gill* almost certain to miss the match due to a fractured thumb and Rohit Sharma unavailable for personal reasons, Rahul is expected to open the innings in Perth.
“He looks fine now, and the physio will continue to monitor him,” a BCCI source confirmed.
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Bowlers Prepare for Test Challenge India’s bowlers, led by vice-captain Jasprit Bumrah, have been intensively training in preparation for the Test. The team wrapped up its training at the WACA ground and will shift to the Optus Stadium for match-specific drills from Tuesday, following a rest day on Monday. With several key players sidelined, the Indian team is keen to fine-tune its plans for the much-anticipated Test series.
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