Shubman Gill’s return has created a selection challenge for India ahead of the second Test in Pune, as they aim to level the series.
Rishabh Pant , who scored 99 in Bengaluru in his first Test since a serious car crash in December 2022, injured the same knee he had surgery on. He missed parts of the match but will keep wickets in the upcoming game.
Gill, who missed the first Test due to a neck issue, is back, leaving India to decide between dropping KL Rahul, who scored 0 and 12 in Bengaluru, or Sarfaraz Khan, who hit 150 in the second innings.
Gambhir explained that selecting the team is always a challenge in India due to the talent pool. He supported Rahul, saying selection is based on form, not public opinion. Despite criticism, Gambhir believes Rahul is capable of big scores, pointing to his recent 68 against Bangladesh.
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India will announce their final team at the toss on Thursday, as they look to bounce back after New Zealand’s first win in India in 36 years.