Rohit Sharma or KL Rahul? Important update on India’s starting pick for the Boxing Day Test against Australia

The fourth test of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) 2024-25 will see Australia i India battling for supremacy at the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG). Scheduled to begin on Thursday, December 26, this much-anticipated Boxing Day Test is of immense importance as the series remains in the balance at 1-1. Both teams are well aware of what is at stake – the series lead and crucial points in the ICC World Trials Championship (WTC) 2023-25 classifications After three exciting games, the stage is set for a contest that could determine the fate of the series and leave a lasting impression on their campaigns.

Australia vs India: Thrills and Challenges

The series has been a rollercoaster of emotions and performances, showcasing the intense rivalry between the two cricket powerhouses. India started on a high note with a resounding 295-run win in the first Test at the Optus Stadium in Perth. The victory, achieved under the substitute captaincy of jasprit bumrahhighlighted India’s dominance in all facets of the game. However, Australia responded quickly. In the second Test at the Adelaide Oval, under lights and with the pink ball, the hosts cruised to a commanding 10-wicket win. Their bowlers dismantled India’s batting line-up, leveling the series in emphatic fashion.

The third Test in Brisbane looked headed for an Australian win as they posted a mammoth total of 445 in the first innings thanks to centuries from Chief Travis i Steve Smith. India’s batting faltered again, but a combination of lower-order resistance and persistent rain dashed Australia’s hopes. The rain-affected draw left the series tied, setting the stage for a high-stakes fourth Test at the MCG.

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Strategic change in India’s batting line-up: KL Rahul or Rohit Sharma as opener?

India’s preparations for the Christmas Day Test include a major change in their batting order. According to various media reports, Rohit Sharmaone of India’s most successful openers in recent years, will potentially return to his preferred role at the top of the order. This decision could come after his struggles in the middle order during the series. Despite managing just 152 runs at a poor average of 11.69 in seven matches this season, Rohit’s run as an opener remains stellar. He has amassed 2,685 runs in 64 innings as an opener, with nine centuries and eight fifties to his name. His ability to take the new ball and dominate the powerplay could provide India with the strong starts they need.

KL Rahulwho has been a consistent performer in this series with 235 runs at an average of 47.00, will move to the number three position. Rahul’s patient approach and solid technique make him an ideal candidate to anchor the innings after the loss of an early wicket. His rise strengthens the middle order and offers flexibility to the Indian line-up in case of quick dismissals. This strategic change is aimed at countering Australia’s formidable bowling attack, led by Mitchell Starc i Pat Cumminsand lay a solid foundation for India’s entries.

Breaking – Rohit Sharma to open – KL to play for 3 at MCG

— Rohit Juglan Rohit Juglan (@rohitjuglan) December 25, 2024

The importance of the Boxing Day Test

The Boxing Day Test is of incomparable importance for both teams. With the series tied at 1-1, a win at the MCG would provide an unassailable lead ahead of the final Test. Beyond the immediate implications of the series, the match is also central to the WTC, where every point is vital. India, aiming to regain form after a rain-soaked third Test, will look to overcome challenges posed by Australia’s bowling discipline and home advantage. Australia, on the other hand, will be buoyed by their performances in Adelaide and Brisbane, hoping to continue their momentum. However, they face pressure to maintain a record as they have not beaten India at the MCG since 2011.

READ also: Australia confirm playing XI for Boxing Day Test against India; also declares a fit Travis Head