India has been handed a fresh setback ahead of the fifth and final Test against Australia in Sydney, with the team already trailing 2-1 in the series. Reports indicate that pacer Akash Deep is likely to miss the crucial match due to a back injury, adding to the challenges India faces as they prepare for the decisive encounter starting on January 3.
Akash Deep, who has been a part of India's pace attack in the series, is now dealing with an injury that disrupts the team’s plans. According to Express Sports, his back problem has left him sidelined for the final Test, and India will have to make adjustments to their bowling lineup. Harshit Rana, another pacer in the squad, is expected to step in as the third seamer. Rana’s inclusion will be critical in providing support to Jasprit Bumrah, who has been carrying a heavy workload throughout the series. Bumrah’s fitness and workload management have become pressing concerns for the team, and the addition of Rana could help ease some of that burden.
The injury to Akash Deep may not be the only change India makes for the Sydney Test. The team management is reportedly considering other adjustments, including the possibility of bringing in Prasidh Krishna into the playing XI. This move could potentially come at the expense of an all-rounder like Washington Sundar or Ravindra Jadeja. However, with the SCG pitch traditionally offering assistance to spinners, India may opt for a two-spinner strategy, which would still see one of Jadeja or Sundar retain their place in the team.
Along with these changes in the bowling department, India is also considering adjustments to their batting order. Shubman Gill, who has been struggling for form in recent matches, might be brought back into the lineup at the critical No. 3 position. Despite his recent lack of runs, Gill is highly regarded by the team management and is considered an important player in the longer format of the game. His inclusion would be a key move as India seeks to strengthen its top order in the final Test.
Another area under consideration is the wicketkeeping role, where Rishabh Pant has come under criticism following his reckless performance in Melbourne. Pant’s form has been inconsistent throughout the series, and his risky approach to batting has raised concerns. Dhruv Jurel, who played the series opener in Perth, is now being seen as a strong candidate to replace Pant behind the stumps for the final Test. Jurel's calm and measured approach could provide India with a more solid option behind the wicket as they look to steady the ship in Sydney.
With a series to salvage and a spot in the World Test Championship final on the line, India’s team management faces several key decisions in the lead-up to the SCG Test. The injury to Akash Deep and the ongoing questions about team composition are just the latest hurdles, but the squad’s ability to adapt and make strategic changes will be crucial in determining the outcome of this match. The changes being considered suggest that India is not willing to take any chances and is prepared to make bold moves to turn the tide in their favor.
