In a tough turn of events for Team Bharat, a disheartening loss by an innings and 32 runs against South Africa in the Boxing Day Test was compounded by news of losing two World Test Championship (WTC) points due to a slow over rate. However, amidst these setbacks, there is a glimmer of hope as star all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja is gearing up for a comeback.
Jadeja, who missed the series opener in Centurion due to an upper back spasm, is showing positive signs of recovery. The all-rounder has commenced training and is likely to be available for selection in the upcoming New Year’s Test in Cape Town, offering Team India a much-needed boost.
Jadeja’s absence in the first Test was notably felt, especially in the batting department. Despite premier spinner R Ashwin’s commendable performance with the ball, India faced challenges in handling the pace and bounce of South African fast bowlers. Jadeja’s return could provide the team with the balance they missed in the initial encounter.
During the warm-up session before Day 3 of the Test, Jadeja displayed promising signs of fitness. Engaging in multiple 30 to 40-metre short strides and participating in fitness drills, he appeared uninhibited and ready for action. Notably, during the lunch break on the third day, Jadeja took to the practice track to bowl alongside reserve pacer Mukesh Kumar, showcasing consistency and control in his deliveries.
With four days remaining until the second and final Test in Cape Town, the possibility of Jadeja’s return is high. However, it is speculated that he might not replace Ashwin in the playing XI. The impressive performance of Shardul Thakur as the fourth seamer in the first Test could prompt the team management to consider playing both Ashwin and Jadeja. This strategic move aims to have a balanced bowling attack, allowing Mohammed Siraj and Jasprit Bumrah to strike from one end while Ashwin and Jadeja hold fort at the other.
In preparation for the upcoming Test, Bharat has summoned Avesh Khan, already in South Africa as part of the Bharat team. This suggests that Prasidh Krishan is likely to make way for changes in the bowling lineup. The pitch conditions in Cape Town are anticipated to be more favorable for spinners as the match progresses, hinting at a potential alteration in India’s bowling strategy for the second Test.
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