Jan 2, 2024
2nd Test: Indian bowlers face tall task, Rohit seeks redemption
TimesofIndia.comROHIT SEEKS REDEMTION
As India gear up for the second Test against South Africa, captain Rohit Sharma faces a pivotal role. To revive India's standing in the World Championship points table, Rohit must tap into his strategic prowess.
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TOUGH TASK
The team, with one loss and one draw in the new Test Championship cycle, hungers for a victory, a challenging feat considering their track record at the picturesque cricket stadium where they've suffered four losses in the last six games.
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JADEJA RETURNS
The return of Ravindra Jadeja promises to bolster the middle-order batting and provide stability with the aging Kookaburra ball.
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CHALLENGE FOR ROHIT
However, the captain's decisions regarding the third and fourth fast bowlers will define the team's response in this challenging situation.
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WILL PRASIDH PLAY?
While acknowledging the potential of players like Prasidh Krishna and Shardul Thakur, Rohit Sharma understands the challenges they face in adapting to Test cricket.
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TOP-ORDER A CONCERN
Meanwhile, the team faces concerns with top-order batters Yashasvi Jaiswal, Shubman Gill, and Shreyas Iyer struggling against bouncers.
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SHARDUL, THE ALLROUNDER
Shardul's inclusion on paper seems to add depth to the batting lineup, except for standout performances from KL Rahul and Virat Kohli in the last match; the team grappled with the opposition's bounce and lateral movement.
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SA EYE CLEANSWEEP
Historically, South Africa have held an advantage at this venue, and with Dean Elgar eyeing victory in his final Test as captain, there's pressure on Rohit Sharma to avoid joining Mahendra Singh Dhoni as the second skipper to not at least draw a Test series in South Africa.
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TOSS WILL BE CRUCIAL
Given the scorching temperatures at Newlands and a pitch offering decent grass cover, the toss becomes pivotal. Despite this, the pitch is expected to favor batsmen, with minimal assistance for spinners from either side.
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