Team India's Playing XI For IND vs AUS 5th Test: Akash Deep Ruled Out Of Sydney Test; Head Coach Gautam Gambhir Confirms

As India gears up for the crucial Border-Gavaskar Trophy decider in Sydney, a significant blow has struck the camp. Akash Deep, the promising young pacer, has been ruled out of the fifth and final Test due to a back injury, as confirmed by India's head coach, Gautam Gambhir. This unexpected setback has added further complications to an already challenging series for the tourists.

Injury Concerns: Akash Deep’s Setback

Injury concerns are nothing new for cricketers, but when it strikes at such a critical juncture, it can alter the course of a team's fortune. Akash Deep, who had shown promise in his previous outings against Australia, will now miss the Sydney Test. The 28-year-old fast bowler, who had been a part of both the Brisbane and Melbourne Tests, has been unable to capitalize on his consistent performances. Despite maintaining an impeccable line and length, his efforts resulted in just five wickets from four innings in the series, with an average of 54.00.

Deep’s misfortune wasn’t due to a lack of skill but rather to India's inconsistent fielding, which saw numerous catches dropped off his bowling. His absence now creates a void in an already depleted pace attack.

A Series of Missed Opportunities

Throughout the series, Akash Deep has bowled long spells, troubling the Australian batsmen with his consistent line and length. His performance in the second innings of the Boxing Day Test at the MCG, where he generated several chances, highlighted his potential as a future Test pacer. However, despite his probing deliveries, luck did not favor him, and he was left with minimal rewards.

In the third Test at the Gabba, Deep claimed figures of 1/95 and 2/28, continuing to maintain pressure with his disciplined pace bowling. Unfortunately, the lack of breakthroughs led to growing frustration within the Indian camp. With such fine margins, Akash Deep will be left ruing what could have been an important contribution to the team’s efforts.

India's Dilemma: A Must-Win Test

The injury to Akash Deep comes at a time when India is in a must-win situation. Currently trailing 2-1 in the series, Team India faces immense pressure to not only retain the Border-Gavaskar Trophy but also to keep their hopes alive for a third consecutive World Test Championship (WTC) final appearance. The Sydney Test is a do-or-die affair for the tourists, and the absence of one of their pace bowlers will only add to the pressure.

India’s bowling lineup will now rely heavily on Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammed Siraj, both of whom will have to step up their performances. Bumrah’s return to form has been crucial, but his over-reliance could become a double-edged sword. With the batting unit also underperforming, the spotlight now turns to India's other pace options.

Potential Replacements: Who Will Fill the Void?

With Akash Deep sidelined, India faces a selection dilemma. Harshit Rana and Prasidh Krishna are the prime candidates to step into the XI. While Krishna has already featured in the first two Tests, taking four wickets, his experience remains limited in the longest format. His last outing was in Perth, where he struggled to make an impact.

On the other hand, Harshit Rana, relatively unknown on the international stage, could get his chance to prove his mettle. Both bowlers offer different skill sets, but it remains to be seen who will earn the nod for the Sydney Test. The Indian management, under Gautam Gambhir's leadership, will have to make some tough decisions, especially with the added pressure of securing a series draw and keeping their WTC hopes intact.