Seasoned spinners Ravichandran Ashwin and Ravindra Jadeja were spotted intensively training together in preparation for the upcoming Test series against South Africa. This marks the duo's first reunion since their participation in the World Cup 2023 campaign.
India is set to embark on a crucial 2-match Test series against South Africa, commencing on December 26, also known as Boxing Day. Historically, India has yet to clinch a Test series win in South African grounds, a fact that puts considerable expectation on the team's senior players to deliver impactful performances.
The series takes on additional significance with the withdrawal of fast bowler Mohammed Shami due to fitness concerns. This development places greater responsibility on the experienced spinners, Ashwin and Jadeja, to bring diversity and strategic depth to India's bowling attack.
In a recent social media update, Ashwin shared a video that captured him and Jadeja in a deep tactical discussion during training. He playfully engaged his followers by asking them to speculate on the topic of their conversation. This interaction underscores the strategic planning and camaraderie between the two veterans as they gear up for the series.
"What could be the secret @imjadeja is sharing here," Ashwin captioned the post.
Watch the video here:
However, with the pitch conditions at Centurion not traditionally favorable for spin bowling, there is speculation about Ashwin's inclusion in the first Test. Despite being a top performer, Ashwin was notably omitted from the World Test Championship 2023 Final, where Australia triumphed over Rohit Sharma-led India. Nearing the milestone of 500 Test wickets, Ashwin is eager to participate in both matches in South Africa, hoping to make a significant impact.
In related news, India's Test squad underwent changes following injuries and player withdrawals. Ishan Kishan's exit from the series led to the inclusion of KS Bharat, while Ruturaj Gaikwad's injury resulted in Abhimanyu Easwaran being named as his replacement. These adjustments reflect India's adaptive strategy and depth in talent as they face a formidable challenge in South Africa.
India Test Squad vs SA: Rohit Sharma (C), Shubman Gill, Yashasvi Jaiswal, Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer, Abhimanyu Easwaran, KL Rahul (wk), Ravichandran Ashwin, Ravindra Jadeja, Shardul Thakur, Mohd. Siraj, Mukesh Kumar, Jasprit Bumrah (VC), Prasidh Krishna, KS Bharat (wk).
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