Brisbane: India’s batting approach is under the microscope as the third Test at the Gabba begins here from Saturday.
While Rohit Sharma is likely to return as an opener to provide stability at the top, KL Rahul could take on a new role in the middle order, leveraging his experience to tackle the challenges of the second new ball.
This tactical adjustment is seen as a response to the inconsistencies that have plagued India’s batting lineup in the series.
India’s stunning 200-plus partnership between Yashasvi Jaiswal and Rahul in Perth remains a testament to their resilience, but the team is now exploring ways to maximise its batting resources.
Rahul, with his versatility and calm demeanour, is being seen as crucial who can neutralise Australia’s pace threat late in the innings, a role that mirrors the demands of opening but under different circumstances.
The likely return of Rohit as an opener brings an air of confidence, especially given his ability to adapt to challenging overseas conditions. Pairing him with Jaiswal allows India to maintain a balance of youth and experience at the top. This would free up Rahul to anchor the middle order, a position where his technique and temperament can be deployed effectively against the second new ball.
Rahul’s adaptability was on full display in Perth, where his partnership with Jaiswal showcased his ability to steady the innings and lay a platform for others. In Brisbane, his role could evolve further, as India seeks a solution to its struggles against Australia’s relentless bowling attack.
This reshuffle not only strengthens India’s batting order but also addresses the issue of collapse under pressure. Rahul’s ability to play like a perfect opener—calmly negotiating testing phases—could be invaluable in navigating tricky sessions.
If Rahul adapts successfully, it could allow India to prolong their innings, keep Australia’s bowlers at bay, and provide a much-needed boost to their overall batting performance. Combined with the solidity of Rohit and the aggression of Jaiswal, the top and middle order may find the balance they need to take control of the series.
With Rahul batting down the order, India might look to include Washington Sundar or Ravichandran Ashwin as all-round options, adding depth to both batting and bowling. Meanwhile, Australia, buoyed by Josh Hazlewood’s return, will rely on their pace battery to exploit any weaknesses in India’s line-up.
As the cricketing world turns its attention to the Gabba, the strategic use of Rahul in a flexible role adds a layer of intrigue to an already tense series. India’s chances of taking the lead may hinge on this new approach, alongside key contributions from experienced players like Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli.
With the series tied at 1-1, both teams are under immense pressure to deliver. The third Test promises a riveting contest that could define the outcome of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy.