Former Indian cricketers Sunil Gavaskar and Irfan Pathan advocate for strategic changes in the Indian playing XI after their humbling defeat in the series opener against South Africa. The loss puts India on the brink of a series defeat, prompting calls for alterations in the team lineup for the second Test in Cape Town, beginning on January 3.
Gavaskar proposes two changes, emphasizing the need for fresh faces to bolster the team’s performance. He suggests Mukesh Kumar, who previously debuted in the West Indies tour, as the third seamer. Additionally, Gavaskar contemplates the inclusion of Avesh Khan, recently added to the squad.
Pathan, while recommending a single change, urges the team management to consider Ravindra Jadeja for the XI. He highlights the limited utilization of Ashwin in the previous game, paving the way for Jadeja’s potential return.
India faced challenges in the absence of Mohammed Shami and Ishant Sharma, resulting in a hefty 408 runs conceded to South Africa in the first Test. The bowlers’ performance, including debutant Prasidh Krishna, has drawn criticism, prompting discussions on reshuffling the squad.
The second Test becomes crucial for India as they aim to level the series and avoid a 31-year Test series drought in South Africa. The proposed changes aim to address the team’s weaknesses and present a stronger challenge to the South African side.
