This decision comes as three of Australia’s key batters, Usman Khawaja, Travis Head, and Alex Carey, are left handers, making Ashwin a more suitable choice.
India are considering leaving out Ravindra Jadeja for the first Test against Australia in Perth.
According to ESPN Cricinfo, Ravichandran Ashwin is likely to be preferred over Ravindra Jadeja for the first Test against Australia.
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This decision comes as three of Australia’s key batters, Usman Khawaja, Travis Head, and Alex Carey, are left handers, making Ashwin a more suitable choice.
Although Jadeja spent considerable time batting in the nets, he did not bowl much, which also leans toward Ashwin’s selection.
In his illustrious career, Ravichandran Ashwin has played only 10 Test matches in Australia, taking 39 wickets at an average of 42.15. Meanwhile, Ravindra Jadeja has played only 4 matches and taken 14 wickets in Australia.
It has been a significant challenge for India to field both of their top spinners, Ashwin and Jadeja, during away tours. Often, Ashwin has been left out, with Jadeja being preferred mainly due to his improved batting skills.
The new team management, led by head coach Gautam Gambhir, seems to place a strong emphasis on match-ups. For instance, during India’s recent home series against New Zealand, they brought in Washington Sundar after initially leaving him out, specifically to counter the Kiwis’ batting line-up, which featured a number of left-handers at the top.
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Nitish Kumar Reddy Could Make His Test Debut in Perth
On the other hand, India are considering giving Nitish Kumar Reddy his Test debut in Perth. Reddy is expected to bat in the lower order, possibly at No. 7 or 8, and contribute with the ball by delivering a few overs.
This would help ease the workload on the pacers in the playing XI. Reddy has been working closely with bowling coach Morne Morkel, who has been focusing on improving Reddy’s pace for the Australian conditions.
The first Test of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy begins on November 22nd (Friday) at Optus Stadium in Perth.
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