Sunil Gavaskar handpicks India’s playing XI for the ‘boxing day’ Test against South Africa in Centurion

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As the much-anticipated two-match Test series between South Africa and India is scheduled to commence on Tuesday (December 26) in Centurion, the return of key Indian players adds vigor to the lineup after their hiatus following the ODI World Cup 2023 Final loss against Australia. Offering his strategic insights for the Boxing Day Test, legendary batter Sunil Gavaskar, speaking on Star Sports, has put forth his envisioned playing XI.

Sunil Gavaskar’s ideal Indian Playing XI: Batting department​

According to Gavaskar, the opening duo will comprise Rohit Sharma and the promising Yashasvi Jaiswal, injecting a blend of experience and youthful exuberance. In a tactical move, Gavaskar advocated for Shubman Gill to retain the number three position, a role he recently played in the recent West Indies Test series, with Virat Kohli, KL Rahul and Shreyas Iyer anchoring the middle order at 4, 5 and 6, respectively.

“My Playing XI is going to be very simple. The openers will be a [Yashasvi] Jaiswal and captain Rohit Sharma. Shubman Gill number three, number four [Virat] Kohli. Number five KL Rahul, number six Shreyas Iyer, or five and six that can move here and there,” Gavaskar said.

Bowling Attack: Two spinners and three pacers​

Irrespective of the conditions at Centurion, Gavaskar underscored the importance of playing two spinners and recommends the seasoned pair of Ravindra Jadeja and Ravichandran Ashwin to fulfill this crucial role.

Addressing the pace attack, the Mumbai-born cricketer suggested the inclusion of Bengal seamer Mukesh Kumar, partnering with the experienced Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammed Siraj, especially in the absence of Mohammed Shami, who remains sidelined due to fitness concerns stemming from an ankle injury sustained during the CWC 2023.

“After that, it will be Ravindra Jadeja and Ravichandran Ashwin. And then the three fast bowlers, Mukesh Kumar, Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammad Siraj,” the 74-year-old concluded.

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Two new inclusions in India’s squad for South Africa Tests​

In terms of squad changes, KS Bharat and Abhimanyu Easwaran have been introduced, replacing Ishan Kishan and Ruturaj Gaikwad. As India strives to secure their maiden Test series victory in South Africa, the chosen playing XI by Indian stalwart reflects a strategic balance of experience, youth, and adaptability to the challenging conditions, encapsulating the team’s strong resolve for success

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