South Africa vs India: Expected changes in the Indian playing XI
Following India’s defeat in the first Test against South Africa, the debate is more about team selection than it is about the shortcomings of the players. The decision to drop Vice-captain Ajinkya Rahane was taken with a pinch of salt by the classic Test cricket lovers. The decision of considering young Bumrah over experienced Ishant Sharma and Umesh Yadav also ruffled some feathers.
After the Indian batting failed the team on both occasions, some changes in the playing XI are obvious. Virat Kohli’s record of seldom going in with an unchanged XI also substantiates this claim. So, let us have a look at three probable changes going into the second Test which starts on Saturday.
#3 Ishant Sharma in for Jasprit Bumrah
If we are to take Kohli’s word that current form is the criteria for selection, Ishant should have featured in the first Test match itself. The new and improved version of Ishant Sharma has a lot more pace, guile and accuracy than before. His height and length (little short of good length) make him naturally suited for South African conditions.
Ishant is the only bowler in the Indian line-up who has already toured South Africa twice. His experience and newfound form can certainly serve the team. However, Pandya and Bumrah having cemented their spots, it is uncertain that who will make way for the lanky pacer.