Ravi Shastri Proposes New Test Lineup for India Amidst Major Changes

India's New Era in Test Cricket

Ravi Shastri, the former Indian cricketer, has suggested a revamped squad as India enters a new phase in Test cricket, following the retirements of key players Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli.

With the Test retirements of Kohli and Rohit, the newly appointed captain Shubman Gill and his 18-member team are set to face a challenging first series against the second-ranked team in unfamiliar conditions, as part of the new World Test Championship cycle.

Shastri's Top Order Selection

During an episode of The ICC Review, Shastri outlined his preferred left-right batting combination for the opening Test against England, scheduled to start on June 20 in Leeds, including a debutant at the number three position.

He stated, 'I would choose Yashasvi Jaiswal to open alongside KL Rahul, as this is a significant tour for him. He is the most seasoned batsman in the lineup.'

Shastri recalled Rahul's previous performance during India's last tour of England, where he scored a century, and expressed hope for him to open the innings again.

For the number three spot, he opted for the promising Sai Sudarshan, noting, 'He has shown great potential, and this tour will provide him with valuable experience.'

Shastri Supports Gill for No. 4 Position

In Shastri's lineup, the new Test captain, Shubman Gill, is positioned at number four, stepping into this role after 32 matches in his red-ball international career.

Gill was previously sidelined during the series loss in Australia but returned to the team at number three when Sharma was unavailable for the final Test in Sydney.

Shastri acknowledged that the decision for the first Test might depend on current form but expressed confidence in Karun Nair, who has experience in county cricket and has made a long-awaited return to the squad.

He remarked, 'Most likely, it will be Karun Nair at number five. It's been a while since he played for India, and Rishabh Pant will take the number six spot.'

Shastri praised Nair's hard work and impressive run-scoring in first-class cricket, encouraging him to assert his place in the team.

India's Bowling Strategy

The composition of India's bowling attack remains a topic of discussion. Shastri has identified Ravindra Jadeja as the primary spinner at number seven, while he faces tough choices regarding the number eight position and the fast-bowling lineup.

There is competition between two fast-bowling all-rounders for a single spot, and the choice between Prasidh Krishna and left-arm bowler Arshdeep Singh may depend on the conditions.

Shastri stated, 'I would opt for three fast bowlers along with Shardul Thakur.'

He acknowledged the tough competition between Shardul and Nitish Reddy, emphasizing the need to assess their bowling workload.

Shastri concluded, 'The three fast bowlers I would select are Prasidh Krishna, Mohammed Siraj, and Jasprit Bumrah. If the weather in Leeds is overcast, there might be a case for including Ashdeep Singh as well.'