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Xtra Time Web Desk: Team India made one notable change for the fourth Test of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG). Shubman Gill was rested, making way for all-rounder Washington Sundar in the playing XI.

This decision raises questions about the rationale behind sidelining the No.3 batter. Let’s analyze the potential factors:

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1. Gill’s Struggles with Form:
   The young batter has found it challenging in the ongoing series in Australia. Across three innings, he managed just 60 runs at an average of 20. Beyond the numbers, Gill’s technique appeared shaky, and he failed to establish a commanding presence at the crease.
2. Tactical Balance:
   With Ravichandran Ashwin unavailable, India opted for a spin-bowling all-rounder to strengthen the team’s balance. Washington Sundar’s inclusion not only adds variety to the bowling attack but also bolsters the batting lineup with depth and versatility.   

These factors likely influenced India’s decision as they prepare for the high-stakes Boxing Day Test, with the series locked at 1-1 after a rain-marred draw in Brisbane.

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Your Playing XI ????

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— BCCI (@BCCI) December 25, 2024

Australia, on the other hand, made a significant change of their own, handing a Test debut to Sam Konstas. With Pat Cummins winning the toss and opting to bat first, the pressure will be on India’s bowlers to make early inroads against a confident Australian lineup.

India (Playing XI): Yashasvi Jaiswal, Rohit Sharma(c), KL Rahul, Virat Kohli, Rishabh Pant(w), Ravindra Jadeja, Nitish Kumar Reddy, Washington Sundar, Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Siraj, Akash Deep

Australia (Playing XI): Usman Khawaja, Sam Konstas, Marnus Labuschagne, Steven Smith, Travis Head, Mitchell Marsh, Alex Carey(w), Pat Cummins(c), Mitchell Starc, Nathan Lyon, Scott Boland