Sunil Gavaskar Reacts to Akash Deep Replacement Rumors for 4th Test
India’s plan to replace Akash Deep with Harshit Rana for the fourth Test against Australia at the MCG has drawn sharp criticism from cricket legend Sunil Gavaskar. Speaking about the potential changes to India’s playing XI, Gavaskar stressed that dropping Akash Deep after his crucial performance in the previous match would be a poor decision.
The fourth Test is very important. The Border-Gavaskar Trophy is tied at 1-1. The series winner will be decided in the last two matches.
“You Can’t Drop a Player Who Saved You from Follow-On”
Sunil Gavaskar said we must not overlook Akash Deep’s contributions in the third Test. In a rain-affected match at the Gabba, Akash was key. He took three wickets and scored 31 runs off 44 balls as a No. 11 batter. His effort helped India avoid the follow-on, ensuring they could hold on for a draw.
“It is highly unlikely that Harshit will replace Akash Deep. Why would you drop a player who saved you from follow-on in the previous Test?” Gavaskar questioned.
The Melbourne pitch should help the pacers early on. So, Gavaskar believes India must include Akash Deep in the XI.
“Nitish Kumar Reddy Should Also Retain His Spot”
Another area of debate has been Nitish Kumar Reddy’s place in the team. Nitish, the fourth fast-bowling option, has been a dependable batter. He averages almost 45 in the series. His bowling impact has been limited, with only three wickets in three Tests.
Gavaskar, however, sees no reason to replace him with a second spinner at the MCG.
“They can’t drop Nitish Kumar Reddy. He is the fourth fast bowler. I can’t see India playing just two seamers and Nitish. For me, they will retain the playing XI of the last game,” Gavaskar added.
Indian spinners, including Jadeja and Sundar, have done well at the MCG. But, Gavaskar thinks the team needs a balanced attack to adapt to the pitch.
India’s Situation in the Series
After losing the series opener in Perth by 295 runs, India has struggled to match Australia’s intensity. A 10-wicket defeat in Adelaide and a rain-assisted draw in Brisbane have kept the series level at 1-1. The fourth Test at the MCG will be a turning point as both teams aim to take a decisive lead.
