India unfazed by WTC race, says head coach Gautam Gambhir
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India unfazed by WTC race, says head coach Gautam Gambhir

Nov 12, 2024

India’s main goal in the coming two months is to win the five-match Test series against Australia, according to head coach Gautam Gambhir. He emphasized that the team is not focusing on the race for a spot in the World Test Championship (WTC) final.

India was leading in the WTC standings until they were swept 3-0 by New Zealand, allowing Australia to move ahead. Now, for India to secure a spot in the final, Captain Rohit Sharma’s side will need to win the series in Australia by a 4-0 margin. However, their path could get easier depending on the outcomes of other series.

“We’re not thinking about WTC qualification; every series is important when you’re playing for your country,” Gambhir said before the team’s departure. “We’re focused on putting up a strong performance against a tough Australian team.”

India has won on its last two tours of Australia, but the current lineup appears less experienced. Rohit Sharma might miss the opening Test in Perth on November 22 due to the birth of his second child, while veteran batsman Virat Kohli has been struggling with form.

Without the injured Mohammed Shami, fast bowler Jasprit Bumrah could face a heavier workload and may step in as captain if Rohit is absent. If that’s the case, Yashasvi Jaiswal would need a new partner at the top. Gambhir said he is confident in his backup options, despite both KL Rahul and Abhimanyu Easwaran having a rough time in recent unofficial matches against Australia A.

Gambhir hinted that KL Rahul’s experience across 53 Tests and his ability to adapt to different batting positions could give him the edge over the uncapped Easwaran. “Sometimes, experience matters,” Gambhir said. “Rahul’s versatility allows him to play as an opener, at number three, or even at six if needed.”

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