KL Rahul Dropped for Pune Test: Shubman Gill Returns, Gambhir's Backing Falls Short
KL Rahul has been left out of India's playing XI for the second Test against New Zealand, which will take place at the Maharashtra Cricket Association (MCA) Stadium in Pune. The decision follows Rahul's underwhelming performance in the first Test, where he scored just 0 and 12 across two innings. Despite strong support from former cricketer and coach Gautam Gambhir, Rahul's recent struggles have led to his replacement by Shubman Gill, who returns to the team after recovering from a fitness issue.
Gambhir, known for his vocal support of players during rough patches, had firmly defended Rahul ahead of the second Test. Speaking before the match, Gambhir said, "You don't pick players based on social media noise or what the experts are saying. What matters is the team's belief and the leadership group's confidence. Ultimately, players are judged over time, not by one or two innings."
Rahul's Form Under Scrutiny
Rahul's omission comes after his disappointing outing in the first Test in Bengaluru, where India collapsed to a first-innings total of 46, leading to an eight-wicket defeat at the hands of New Zealand. Rahul, despite being one of India's more experienced batters, has struggled to convert starts into meaningful scores in recent months. His removal offers Shubman Gill, who missed the first Test due to fitness concerns, a chance to cement his spot in the playing XI.
India also made two other changes to the lineup. Washington Sundar, making his return to the Test side after last playing in 2021, replaces Kuldeep Yadav, while pace bowler Akash Deep steps in for Mohammed Siraj. Sundar’s recent domestic form, including a century in the Ranji Trophy, has boosted his all-rounder credentials, while Akash Deep, who has impressed in India's domestic circuit, is expected to strengthen the pace attack.
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Rohit Sharma on Team Changes
Indian captain Rohit Sharma acknowledged that leaving out Rahul was a tough decision, but he emphasized the need for a stronger performance following their struggles in the first Test. "Not having enough runs on the board hurt us last time, but we are confident in our ability to bounce back," Sharma said at the toss. He also highlighted the importance of the newcomers, praising Shubman Gill, Washington Sundar, and Akash Deep for their hard work and readiness to contribute to the team's success.
The pitch in Pune is expected to be drier, with conditions favoring spinners as the match progresses. New Zealand captain Tom Latham won the toss and opted to bat first, looking to build on their momentum from the first Test. The Kiwis made just one change to their squad, bringing in all-rounder Mitchell Santner for Matt Henry, who played a key role in New Zealand's previous victory with eight wickets.
Looking Ahead
India, eager to bounce back after their defeat in Bengaluru, will be relying on contributions from key players like Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, and Ravichandran Ashwin to regain control of the series. Meanwhile, New Zealand, riding high on confidence, will be aiming to capitalize on India's recent vulnerabilities and take the upper hand.
Playing XIs:
India: Yashasvi Jaiswal, Rohit Sharma (C), Shubman Gill, Virat Kohli, Rishabh Pant (WK), Sarfaraz Khan, Ravindra Jadeja, Ravichandran Ashwin, Washington Sundar, Akash Deep, Jasprit Bumrah.
New Zealand: Tom Latham (C), Devon Conway, Will Young, Rachin Ravindra, Daryl Mitchell, Tom Blundell (WK), Glenn Phillips, Tim Southee, Mitchell Santner, Ajaz Patel, William O'Rourke.
As the teams gear up for the Pune Test, India will be hoping their changes pay off, while New Zealand seeks to continue their winning ways and seal the series.