Reports: Rohit Sharma Likely to Open in Boxing Day Test
Rohit Sharma will open the batting in the Boxing Day Test against Australia at the MCG. The Indian skipper, who batted at No. In the last two Tests, he scored 6 runs. He could reunite with Yashasvi Jaiswal. Together, they would be a strong opening pair for India.
Rohit’s Return as Opener Imminent
After missing the first Test due to paternity leave, Rohit Sharma returned for the second. He batted in the middle order. This move let KL Rahul and Yashasvi Jaiswal continue their opening partnership. They had a match-winning 201-run stand in the first match. However, reports say the 37-year-old captain will reclaim his opening slot in Melbourne.
If Rohit opens with Jaiswal, KL Rahul may slide to No. 3. This would strengthen the top order. But, it questions Shubman Gill’s place in the XI. Gill showed promise in the second Test. But, he failed to turn his starts into big scores. This left the door open for a possible reshuffle.
Rohit Tight-Lipped on India’s Batting Order
At the pre-match press conference on December 24, Rohit Sharma did not confirm India’s batting lineup. This was a change from his candidness before the Adelaide Test.
“Let’s not worry about who bats where. Something that we need to figure and not something I would be discussing here. We will do what is best for the team,” Rohit had said on Tuesday, December 24.
The decision will likely depend on the conditions and team balance. But, the prospect of Rohit returning to his natural position as an opener adds intrigue to India’s strategy for the crucial match.
Will India Play an Extra Spinner at MCG?
The pitch conditions at the MCG could also influence India’s final XI. MCG curator Matt Page says the pitch won’t turn much early in the match. The hot afternoon may worsen the pitch, helping spinners as the game progresses.
Australian captain Pat Cummins expects Nathan Lyon to be key in such conditions. When asked about India’s approach, Rohit was non-committal. He would not say if they might play an extra spinner.
“Whatever we have to do to make the best possible XI in these conditions, we will do that — whether that is playing an extra spinner or not,” Rohit said.
With the series tied at 1-1, the Boxing Day Test is very important for both teams. It affects the Border-Gavaskar Trophy and World Test Championship standings. India’s strategy will be crucial to gain an edge in Melbourne. Their batting order and bowling combo will be key.
Fans and experts will watch closely. Can Rohit Sharma’s return to the top of the order give the team stability and aggression in the high-stakes match?
