NewsPhotos Team India's Probable Playing XI For IND vs AUS 5th Test: Rishabh Pant Out, Dhruv Jurel In; Injured Akash Deep Set To Miss Out - In Pics

Team India's Probable Playing XI For IND vs AUS 5th Test: Rishabh Pant Out, Dhruv Jurel In; Injured Akash Deep Set To Miss Out - In Pics

As Team India gears up for the crucial 5th Test against Australia at the Sydney Cricket Ground, significant changes are expected in the playing XI. With Akash Deep ruled out due to a back injury and Rishabh Pant facing the possibility of being dropped, Dhruv Jurel is set to take his place in the team. These adjustments, along with potential shifts in the batting and bowling order, could play a decisive role in India's efforts to level the series and retain the Border-Gavaskar Trophy. Here's a look at the likely playing XI and what these changes mean for the team.

Zee Media Bureau|

Updated:Jan 02, 2025, 08:18 AM IST

1. Rohit Sharma (c)

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Rohit Sharma’s leadership and ability to score big runs are pivotal for India in this crucial Test match. As the opener, his contribution at the top will be essential to build a solid foundation.

2. Yashasvi Jaiswal

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Yashasvi Jaiswal has shown maturity beyond his years. As an opener, his calm approach to batting will be key to weathering Australia’s pace attack and anchoring India’s innings early on.

3. KL Rahul

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KL Rahul is under pressure to perform after a string of low scores. His experience and versatility are valuable, but he’ll need to provide a strong, steady presence in the middle order in this do-or-die Test.

4. Virat Kohli

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Virat Kohli, one of India's most dependable batsmen, must anchor the middle order. His composure and ability to handle pressure will be key, especially with the series hanging in the balance.

5. Dhruv Jurel (wk)

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With Rishabh Pant likely to be dropped, Dhruv Jurel is expected to take over the wicketkeeping duties. Jurel’s calmness and ability to perform under pressure make him a promising addition to the middle order.

6. Ravindra Jadeja

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Ravindra Jadeja’s all-round skills are indispensable, offering control with the ball and vital runs with the bat. His left-arm spin will be important in the middle overs, especially on a pitch that could assist spinners.

7. Washington Sundar

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Washington Sundar's role will be as a reliable all-rounder, providing balance to the team. His off-spin and ability to contribute with the bat offer vital depth to both the bowling and batting lineups.

8. Jasprit Bumrah (vc)

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Jasprit Bumrah’s pace and leadership in the attack make him the spearhead of India's bowling lineup. His ability to generate bounce and swing will be crucial in Sydney’s pace-friendly conditions.

9. Harshit Rana

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Harshit Rana, returning to the XI, will be expected to deliver pace and bounce, particularly in conditions that favor fast bowlers. His aggressive approach could add a dynamic edge to India’s pace attack.

10. Prasidh Krishna

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Prasidh Krishna’s height and pace will be valuable on the Sydney wicket, where bounce is expected to play a role. Krishna will complement Bumrah and Rana, providing India with an additional pace option.

11. Mohammed Siraj

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Mohammed Siraj’s intensity and ability to bowl well with the new ball make him a key asset in India’s fast-bowling department. Siraj's disciplined and aggressive style can trouble Australian top-order batters.