India vs Australia Border-Gavaskar Test series is finely tied at 1-1, with the upcoming IND vs AUS Boxing Day Test at Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) set to play a crucial role in determining the series outcome.
Team India might consider a major change in their playing 11 for Boxing Day Test, with wicketkeeper-batsman Dhruv Jurel potentially replacing captain Rohit Sharma at number six.
Rohit's recent form has been a concern, and an injury sustained during a net session after being struck by a delivery from throwdown specialist Daya has further cast doubt on his availability for IND vs AUS 4th Test at the MCG.
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If Rohit fails to recover in time for IND vs AUS Boxing Day Test starting on December 26, Jurel could be handed an opportunity.
Rohit, who has been batting at number six instead of opening for the first time in six years, has struggled in the ongoing IND vs AUS Border-Gavaskar Test series, managing only 3, 6, and 10 runs in three innings. He also underperformed in recent home matches against Bangladesh and New Zealand.
With the stakes high, as a win would not only tilt the series in India's favor but also boost their chances of reaching the World Test Championship final, the team may consider bold moves.
Dhruv Jurel presents a compelling case due to his recent performances and adaptability to Australian conditions. On India A's tour of Australia prior to IND vs AUS Border-Gavaskar Test series, he delivered impressive scores of 80, 68, 11, and 1 in four innings.
Having spent over two months acclimating to local Australian conditions, Jurel is seen as a capable option in the middle order.