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As India gears up for the second Test against Australia in Adelaide, Cheteshwar Pujara, one of the most experienced members of the squad, has expressed his desire to see continuity in the team’s bowling attack. Following a historic 295-run victory in Perth, Pujara believes that the pace trio of Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Siraj, and Harshit Rana, along with the all-round capabilities of Washington Sundar, should remain unchanged for the Adelaide Test.
Impressive Bowling Display in Perth
India’s bowling attack was instrumental in their dominant victory at Perth. Spearheaded by Jasprit Bumrah, who delivered a match-defining performance, the pace trio dismantled the Australian batting lineup across both innings. Mohammed Siraj complemented Bumrah’s precision with controlled aggression, while debutant Harshit Rana showcased his potential despite some struggles in the second innings.
Pujara highlighted the importance of retaining this combination, stating that Rana’s effort and ability to stick to the basics make him a valuable asset even on pitches with varying conditions. “In Australia, it’s very easy to get carried away, and sometimes when you look at the pace of the pitch, it offers a bit more extra bounce… But he [Rana] was still looking to hit the right spot, good length, try and hit the top of off, and he has that ability,” Pujara told ESPNcricinfo.
Rana, who took three wickets in the first innings at Perth, found it tougher in the second innings as the ball aged. However, his dismissal of Alex Carey demonstrated his ability to pierce through techniques even when conditions were less favorable.
Washington Sundar as the Spin Option
In addition to the pacers, Washington Sundar played a pivotal role with his off-spin, picking up crucial wickets in the first innings. Pujara believes Sundar’s dual abilities with bat and ball put him ahead of seasoned spinners like Ravichandran Ashwin or Ravindra Jadeja for the second Test.
“He [Washington] didn’t look really good when he started his bowling, but eventually he got a couple of wickets, he varied his pace, so Washy should be our spinner,” Pujara explained. “Because he can bat well. The reason he was chosen in this squad is because he can bat. It will be important in the second Test match that, in case we lose a few wickets early, if the lower-middle order needs to contribute, Washington can do that role.”
Adelaide’s Challenge
Adelaide is expected to pose a different challenge compared to Perth, with conditions that could favor batsmen as the match progresses. Pujara, however, feels that sticking with the same bowling attack will provide India with a balanced approach capable of adapting to changing conditions.
He emphasized the importance of not overthinking or making unnecessary changes to a winning combination. “I think we should carry on with the same bowling attack,” Pujara asserted, adding that Nitish Rana’s occasional overs could be used to provide additional variety if needed.
The Winning Formula
The continuity of the bowling attack aligns with India’s recent strategy of building partnerships in bowling to keep the opposition under pressure. With Bumrah’s experience, Siraj’s aggression, Rana’s emerging talent, and Sundar’s all-round utility, Pujara believes this combination offers the best chance of success in the second Test.
India’s Momentum
India leads the five-match series 1-0 after their commanding win in Perth. Retaining the same bowling attack not only reinforces stability but also keeps the pressure on an Australian side that struggled against the pace and precision of India’s bowlers.
Conclusion
Cheteshwar Pujara’s endorsement of the current bowling lineup reflects his faith in the team’s balance and adaptability. As India heads into the Adelaide Test, the emphasis on consistency and trust in the proven combination could prove decisive in maintaining their momentum and edging closer to a series victory.
