India head coach Gautam Gambhir is set to rejoin the Rohit Sharma-led squad in Australia on Tuesday after attending to personal matters in India. Gambhir had missed the two-day pink-ball tour game against the Australian Prime Minister’s XI in Canberra, which was reduced to a limited-overs contest due to rain. His absence coincided with the conclusion of the first Test of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) series in Perth.
While Gambhir was away, India’s support staff, including Abhishek Nayar, Ryan ten Doeschate, and Morne Morkel, managed the team’s preparations for the tour match. The game saw impressive performances from Harshit Rana, who claimed 4 for 44, and Shubman Gill, who scored a brisk 50 off 62 balls. India secured a six-wicket victory, boosting morale ahead of the crucial day-night Test at Adelaide Oval starting December 6.
The Indian team traveled to Adelaide from Canberra on Monday and is scheduled to hold three practice sessions, two of which will take place under lights on Tuesday and Thursday. With Gambhir back at the helm, critical selection decisions are on the horizon. India will welcome full-time captain Rohit Sharma, who missed the first Test to be with his wife for the birth of their second child. In his absence, Jasprit Bumrah led the team to a commanding 295-run win in Perth.
Another key player returning to contention is Shubman Gill, who missed the first Test due to a fractured thumb sustained during training. His availability introduces a potential shuffle in the playing XI. Gill is expected to slot into the No. 3 position, while Rohit Sharma could return to the middle order, batting behind Virat Kohli.
The opening combination is a matter of significant debate. Yashasvi Jaiswal and K.L. Rahul formed a formidable partnership in Perth, amassing a double-century stand in the second innings. Their strong performance presents a compelling case to retain their positions as openers. If this pairing continues, Gill’s inclusion might lead to Devdutt Padikkal and Dhruv Jurel making way in the playing XI.
The pink-ball game in Canberra provided some insights into India’s potential strategy for the second Test. While not a definitive contest, it showcased the team’s depth and adaptability. Jaiswal and Rahul’s consistency as openers, coupled with Gill’s ability at No. 3, offers a balanced top order. In the middle, Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, and wicketkeeper-batter Rishabh Pant are likely to provide stability and experience.
Gambhir’s return brings clarity and leadership to the squad, especially with high-stakes selection calls ahead of the pink-ball Test. With a well-rounded team and a dominant start in the series, India looks poised to maintain momentum as they prepare for the next challenge in Adelaide.