As India prepares to face England in the second Test in Visakhapatnam on February 2, the team finds itself in a position of restructuring due to injuries and form concerns. The absence of key players such as KL Rahul, Ravindra Jadeja, and Virat Kohli, who withdrew from the first two matches, necessitates adjustments in the playing XI. The task becomes even more challenging as the team aims to level the five-match series after a setback in the opening game.
The exclusion of KL Rahul and Ravindra Jadeja due to injuries sustained in the series opener creates a void that the Indian team must address. Additionally, Virat Kohli’s absence leaves a leadership vacuum that falls on the shoulders of stand-in captain Rohit Sharma, who faced scrutiny for his leadership in the previous match in Hyderabad.
In terms of the opening combination, the duo of Rohit Sharma and Yashasvi Jaiswal is expected to remain unchanged. However, the pressure mounts on Sharma, not only as the captain but also as a batsman who needs to contribute significantly. Jaiswal, coming off a promising display in the first innings of the previous game, will aim to build on that performance and establish himself as a reliable opener.
The absence of key players prompts the team management to make strategic decisions in selecting the playing XI. Shubman Gill and Shreyas Iyer, despite recent poor form, are likely to retain their positions due to their considerable potential. With only four bowlers expected to be included, the management faces a dilemma in choosing between Sarfaraz Khan and Rajat Patidar. Considering Patidar’s recent good form and prior inclusion in the squad, he might be favored over Sarfaraz, possibly batting at either No. 3 or No. 4.
In the middle order, KS Bharat and Axar Patel assume crucial roles. While Bharat impressed in the first Test, Axar Patel’s responsibilities increase, particularly in the absence of Jadeja, both with the bat and as a spinner. To compensate for Jadeja’s absence, the team might opt for Washington Sundar, providing a like-for-like replacement as an off-spinning all-rounder. Sundar’s inclusion would also add a left-handed dimension to the predominantly right-handed middle-order lineup.
Ravichandran Ashwin and Jasprit Bumrah are certainties in the Vizag Test. Although Bumrah’s workload management is crucial, the relatively short turnaround before the third Test allows him to play a pivotal role in the second match. Mohammed Siraj, who bowled only 11 overs in the first Test, might make way for Kuldeep Yadav, especially considering the spin-friendly conditions expected. Yadav, a left-arm wrist-spinner, could pose challenges to England’s formidable batting lineup.
The team management has the option of including Saurabh Kumar, who has been added to the squad, but he may remain on the bench for the upcoming Test. The focus appears to be on stability and strategic adjustments to counter England’s strengths.
As the Indian team seeks to level the series against England, the predicted playing XI for the second Test in Visakhapatnam reflects a balance between experience, form, and strategic considerations. The absence of key players necessitates careful planning and execution, making the upcoming match a critical juncture in the series. The team management’s decisions will play a crucial role in shaping the outcome of the Test and setting the tone for the remainder of the series.