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Cheteshwar Pujara has urged the team management to retain the same bowling combination that proved effective in Perth.
Cheteshwar Pujara picks the bowling attack for Adelaide Test
India is gearing up to face Australia in the second Test of the ongoing Border-Gavaskar Trophy, scheduled to begin on December 6 in Adelaide. The visitors are brimming with confidence after a commanding 295-run victory in the first Test in Perth, where the hosts crumbled under immense pressure in a one-sided contest.
As the discussion around India’s playing XI intensifies, seasoned batter Cheteshwar Pujara has urged the team management to retain the same bowling combination that proved effective in Perth.
In the opening Test, India’s pace attack featured Harshit Rana alongside Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammed Siraj, while Washington Sundar played as the designated spin-bowling all-rounder. Notably, experienced spinners R Ashwin and Ravindra Jadeja were left on the bench.
“There’s no doubt about it,” Pujara said on Star Sports, advocating for continuity in the bowling attack.
“This combination has delivered results. Bumrah was exceptional, Siraj bowled with great control, and Harshit impressed despite it being his debut. He pitched the ball up and maintained discipline, which is crucial in Australian conditions.”
Pujara also lauded Rana’s composure and maturity on debut. “In Australia, it’s easy for bowlers to get carried away, especially with the pace and bounce on offer. But Rana stayed focused, hitting the right lengths and targeting the top of the off-stump. That kind of temperament is invaluable, and I believe we should stick with him,” he explained.
Speaking about Washington Sundar, Pujara highlighted the all-rounder’s dual contributions. “Washi didn’t start his spell on the best note, but he adjusted well and eventually took a couple of wickets. His ability to vary his pace was impressive. Importantly, his batting adds depth to our lineup. If we lose early wickets, having someone like Sundar who can stabilize the lower order becomes critical,” he added.
In Perth, Sundar showcased his potential, delivering a steady performance with the ball. He bowled two maiden overs in the first innings, conceding just one run, and followed it up with two crucial wickets in the second innings, giving away 48 runs in 15 overs.
