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RCB Squad IPL 2025: The IPL 2025 auction is over, and RCB is one of the most talked-about franchises for its auction strategy. Here, we analyze the RCB squad's strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, and Threats in the upcoming IPL 2025.
Royal Challengers Bangaluru was one of the franchises with the most purse before the auction. They retained just three players- Virat Kohli, Rajat Patidar, and Yash Dayal. With a purse of over Rs 80Cr, everyone hoped they would rope in some big names, especially in the bowling department, but the management had different ideas.  
RCB team in the auction table was slightly inactive on DAY 1 of the auction. They let go of all the big names and roped in crucial but less-known names under the eyes for cheap. They really played smart on the table but the question is- do they have a strong squad to fight in the IPL 2025?
<h2>RCB Squad For IPL 2025</h2>
The RCB management indicated a complete change in the squad and built the team around Virat at the top, Patidar in the middle, and Yash Dayal in the bowling unit. They spent 23 Cr for just two pacers—Josh Hazlewood (Rs 12.25 Cr) and Bhuvaneshwar Kumar (Rs10.75 Cr). They roped in Jitesh Sharma (Rs 11 Cr) and Phil Salt (Rs 11.25 Cr) for another 22 Cr and then spent around 12 Cr for two allrounders, Krunal Pandya and Rasikh Dar. 
All in all, they have built a strong unit around some strong Indian options in all departments. Let's take a look at the RCB Squad for the Upcoming IPL 2025:
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<thead>
<tr>
<th scope="col" style="border-color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">
Player
</th>
<th scope="col" style="border-color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">
Price
</th>
<th scope="col" style="border-color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">
Country
</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="border-color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">
Virat Kohli
</td>
<td style="border-color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">
Rs. 21 crore
</td>
<td style="border-color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">
India
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="border-color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">
Rajat Patidar
</td>
<td style="border-color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">
Rs. 11 crore
</td>
<td style="border-color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">
India
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="border-color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">
Yash Dayal
</td>
<td style="border-color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">
Rs. 5 crore
</td>
<td style="border-color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">
India
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="border-color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">
Liam Livingstone
</td>
<td style="border-color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">
Rs. 8.75 crore
</td>
<td style="border-color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">
England
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="border-color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">
Jitesh Sharma 
</td>
<td style="border-color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">
Rs. 11 crore
</td>
<td style="border-color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">
India
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="border-color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">
Josh Hazlewood 
</td>
<td style="border-color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">
Rs. 12.50 crore
</td>
<td style="border-color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">
Australia
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="border-color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">
Bhuvneshwar Kumar 
</td>
<td style="border-color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">
Rs. 10.75 crore
</td>
<td style="border-color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">
India
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="border-color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">
Rasikh Dar
</td>
<td style="border-color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">
Rs. 6 crore
</td>
<td style="border-color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">
India
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="border-color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">
Phil Salt 
</td>
<td style="border-color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">
Rs. 11.50 crore
</td>
<td style="border-color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">
England
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="border-color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">
Krunal Pandya 
</td>
<td style="border-color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">
Rs. 5.75 crore
</td>
<td style="border-color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">
India
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="border-color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">
Suyash Sharma 
</td>
<td style="border-color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">
Rs. 2.60 crore
</td>
<td style="border-color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">
India
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="border-color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">
Swapnil Singh
</td>
<td style="border-color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">
Rs. 50 lakhs
</td>
<td style="border-color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">
India
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="border-color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">
Tim David 
</td>
<td style="border-color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">
Rs. 3 crore
</td>
<td style="border-color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">
Australia
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="border-color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">
Jacob Bethell 
</td>
<td style="border-color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">
Rs. 2.60 crore
</td>
<td style="border-color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">
England
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="border-color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">
Romario Shepherd 
</td>
<td style="border-color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">
Rs. 1.50 crore
</td>
<td style="border-color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">
West Indies
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="border-color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">
Nuwan Thushara 
</td>
<td style="border-color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">
Rs. 1.60 crore
</td>
<td style="border-color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">
Sri Lanka
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="border-color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">
Devdutt Padikkal
</td>
<td style="border-color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">
Rs. 2 crore
</td>
<td style="border-color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">
India
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="border-color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">
Swastik Chhikara
</td>
<td style="border-color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">
Rs. 30 lakh
</td>
<td style="border-color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">
India
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="border-color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">
Lungi Ngidi 
</td>
<td style="border-color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">
Rs. 1 crore
</td>
<td style="border-color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">
South Africa
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="border-color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">
Manoj Bhandage 
</td>
<td style="border-color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">
Rs. 30 lakhs
</td>
<td style="border-color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">
India
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="border-color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">
Abhinandan Singh 
</td>
<td style="border-color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">
Rs. 30 lakh
</td>
<td style="border-color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">
India
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="border-color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">
Mohit Rathee 
</td>
<td style="border-color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">
Rs. 30 lakh
</td>
<td style="border-color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">
India
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
</div>
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<h2>SWOT Analysis of RCB Squad</h2>
RCB spent most of its money on middle-order players and roped in players like Jitesh Sharma, Liam Livingstone, Krunal Pandya, and Tim David. They strengthened their middle order, which was the problem in the previous seasons. 
<ul>
<li>Batters: Virat Kohli, Rajat Patidar, Devdutt Padikkal, Swastik Chhikara, Tim David</li>
<li>Wicketkeepers: Phil Salt, Jitesh Sharma</li>
<li>All-rounders: Liam Livingstone, Krunal Pandya, Swapnil Singh, Romario Shepherd, Manoj Bhandage, Jacob Bethell</li>
<li>Fast bowlers: Josh Hazlewood, Rasikh Dar, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Nuwan Thushara, Yash Dayal, Lungi Ngidi, Abhinandan Singh</li>
<li>Spinners: Suyash Sharma, Mohit Rathee</li>
</ul>
<h3>STRENGTHS of RCB Squad</h3>
RCB has always been known for its batting. From Chris Gyle and AB de Villiers to Virat Kohli and Dinesh Karthik, they have always had a batting-heavy squad. This time, they are among the strongest when it comes to batting power. With these names, they can play free and bold cricket, and they have also managed to rope in plenty of all-rounders to the team. 
Not only batting, but they also hold pretty strong fast bowling options. They have Bhuvneshwar Kumar and Josh Hazlewood, who are well-known for their tight bowling, and Rasikh Dar, who is an excellent middle over and death over bowler. 
<h3>WEAKNESSES of RCB Squad</h3>
They have weak spin-bowling options! With Suyash Sharma and Krunal Pandya seeming to be in the playing11, the spin department of RCB isn't promising even for their home ground. However, they have Liam Livingstone who can roll his arms, but that is not going to be enough. Spin is going to be their weak link.
<h3>OPPORTUNITIES in the RCB Squad</h3>
Playing with Virat Kohli, most likely under Virat Kohli, is a dream of many youngsters in India and across the world. There are a couple of young names in the squad, who can prove their young talent in the upcoming season. Especially, Suyash Sharma has a big opportunity to play bold and knock the international doors. 
Devdutt Padikkal is another name for opportunities. His charm and form were lost after he joined RR, but coming back to his home team, he really has a chance to unleash his potential in the IPL Stage. 
<h3>THREATS for RCB Squad</h3>
Threats for the Challengers squad are mainly not having proper backups. Their spin looks fragile, and a bad day of fast bowlers can ruin the game for them. They have enough options for bowling in the death, and bowling at the top, but concerns may arise in the middle order. 
ALSO READ: <a href="https://www.icccricketschedule.com/hardik-pandya-destroys-new-csk-bowler-slams-4-continuous-sixes-scores-an-excellent-fifty/">Hardik Pandya destroys new CSK bowler, slams 4 continuous sixes, scores an excellent fifty</a>
SOURCE- <a href="https://www.royalchallengers.com/">RCB OFFICIAL</a>

Most cricket pundits might not have liked the RCB's work at the auction table, but they are still strong and can turn the table anytime and against anyone in the league. Here is the SWOT analysis and review of the RCB squad for IPL 2025.

IPL 2025: RCB Squad after Auction, Players, Prices and Full SWOT Analysis

ipl-2025-rcb-squad-after-auction-players-prices-and-full-swot-analysis

The Indian Cricket Team's 10-wicket defeat versus the Mighty Australians in the Adelaide Test-Match has hurt them in many ways. This defeat has not only made their chances of winning the Border-Gavaskar Trophy series difficult, but it has also hampered their chances of qualifying for the final of the 2023-2025 World Test Championship (WTC) cycle. The Men in Blue have now slipped to the third position in the overall standings of the World Test Championship (WTC) 2023-2025 cycle
Talking about the WTC Points Table, the Proteas are sitting at the top of the Overall Standings with a good 63.33 PCT. Their recent 2-0 series win over Sri Lanka helped them to displace the Australians at the top of the table. The Aussies are at the 2nd spot with a 60.71 PCT next to their name. 
Additionally, Team India were the table toppers, but their embarrassing 10-wicket defeat in the Adelaide Test-Match has changed everything in a single go.
<h1></h1>
<h1>One more defeat will end India's hopes of qualifying for their third-successive WTC Final</h1>

The currently ongoing five-match Test-Series (BGT) between India and Australia is currently level at 1-1. Three more matches are left to be played in the series and if the Men in Blue end up on the losing side even in one single contest, then their hopes of qualifying for a successive WTC Final will come to an end. 
If the Rohit Sharma-led team draws one match and secures victories in the other two contests, then their hopes will remain alive. However, to cement their spot in the Final of the 2023-2025 World Test Championship (WTC) cycle, they will have end up on the winning side in all of the remaining three BGT Test-Matches. 

<h1>What are the qualification equations for Rohit Sharma &amp; CO? </h1>

If the Rohit Sharma-led team defeats the Mighty Australians by a margin of 3-2, then they will remain in the top two of the overall standings.
Following the end of the 2024 Border-Gavaskar Trophy series, Pat Cummins and his men will be travelling to Sri Lanka to take part in a two-match Test-Series. It will not be easy for the Aussies to secure a victory in the spin-friendly conditions of the island nation. 
South Africa on the other hand are slated to square off versus Pakistan in a home two-match Test-Series. They are anticipated to secure a victory in that series. In such a scenario, the race to reach the all-important title-deciding WTC Final clash between South Africa, India &amp; Australia has heated up and it has become very exciting.

Do Read: <a href="https://www.icccricketschedule.com/India-vs-Australia:-ICC-responded-with-strict-actions-to-the-verbal-misconduct-between-Travis-Head-and-Mohammed-Siraj-in-Adelaide/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">India vs Australia: ICC responded with strict actions to the verbal misconduct between Travis Head and Mohammed Siraj in Adelaide</a>

Senior batters Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma walk back after India's loss in Adelaide | Image: Associated Press

WTC Final Scenario: After suffering a 10-wicket defeat in Adelaide, the path to reach the final of the World Test Championship has become very difficult for India. They have to win the series versus fierce-rivals Australia at any cost if they want to have any chances of making it to their third consecutive WTC Final. In this article, we will be taking a look at Indian's WTC Final qualification scenarios

Has India's defeat in the Adelaide Test shattered their dream of qualifying for the WTC Final? Know their Qualification-Scenario

has-indias-defeat-in-the-adelaide-test-shattered-their-dream-of-qualifying-for-the-wtc-final-know-their-qualification-scenario

India pacer Mohammed Siraj has been called out by the ex-India captain Kris Srikkanth for his fierce send-off to the Australia batter Travis Head. The fast bowler was called brainless and mad by a former Indian selector for his antics during the Adelaide Test. 
Mohammed Siraj has been in the headlines since Day 2 of the Adelaide Test, which was a pink-ball game against the Australia National Cricket Team. This was because of the send-off that he gave to Travis Head, who hit a brutal century in the first innings. 
Travis Head took the game away from India with his brutal batting and made sure that he helped his team win the match. The batter played a glorious innings and slammed a magical century. What caught the attention of many was the way he played, which was quite aggressive and brutal. 
Travis Head showed no mercy on the Indian bowlers as he hit them out of the park. The batter also slammed Mohammed Siraj for a six but that didn't go well with the fast bowler as on the very next ball, he removed the batter with his pinpoint yorker and sent him packing. 
As Mohammed Siraj removed Travis Head, he came up with the aggressive send-off. The bowler celebrated wildly, and then the batter too didn't take that well as he said some harsh words, and then the matter got serious and was all over the news in Australia. 
<h2>Hey Siraj, don't you have brains? What are you doing? - Kris Srikkanth </h2>
But amid all this, former India selector Kris Srikkanth lashed out at Mohammed Siraj for his send-off to Travis Head. He called fast bowler's Sledging to batter as rubbish. Speaking in a video posted on his YouTube channel, he explained: 
"He has smashed the bowling mercilessly. Hey Siraj, don't you have brains? What are you doing? Have you gone mad? He smashed you left, right and centre. He hit boundaries and sixes effortlessly in his knock of 140. You're giving him a send-off 0after that. Is this called Sledging? What rubbish is this? It's just madness,
<h2>One batter has scored 140. Give him credit, and applaud his knock - Kris Srikkanth on Mohammed Siraj </h2>
Kris Srikkanth further added Mohammed Siraj should've applauded Travis Head for his knock. While pointing out that the batter smashed bowlers all over the park, they said that India had no answers to the onslaught. He added: 
"One batter has scored 140. Give him credit, and applaud his knock. Instead of saying 'brilliant knock', you're giving him a send-off? As if, you got him out on 10 or 0, as if you planned it and got his wicket! He smashed you all over. The Indian bowlers had no answers to Head's onslaught. 140 off 141 balls. Look at that. He hit sixes at will. He didn't treat Ashwin as a spinner, he is dancing down the track and smashing him,"  
<a href="https://www.icccricketschedule.com/south-africa-displaces-australia-at-the-top-of-the-wtc-standings-following-their-win-vs-sri-lanka-updated-wtc-points-table/">Both Travis Head and Mohammed Siraj were penalised by the ICC for their antics</a>. But after the game ended, they also clarified the talks between them.

India pacer Mohammed Siraj has been called out by the ex-India captain Kris Srikkanth for his fierce send-off to the Australia batter Travis Head

Mohammed Siraj called mad and brainless as Ex-India captain slams him for his 'rubbish' behaviour against Travis Head

Mohammed-Siraj-called-mad-and-brainless-as-Ex-India-captain-slams-him-for-his-rubbish-behaviour-against-Travis-Head

Australia is all set to be boosted by the inclusion of Josh Hazlewood for the third Test against India. His availability for the Brisbane Test will be depicted within the next 24 hours. The match is all set to take place from 14th December (Saturday). 
Josh Hazlewood, who was the best Australia pacer in the first Test, missed the Adelaide game due to a side strain. However, the fast bowler has been putting in hard yards and is nearing full fitness. This surely will be a massive problem for India as he arguably is a most threatening bowler from Australian side.
After the Test against India concluded, Josh Hazlewood bowled a top-pace spell and was examined by the medical team. The fast bowler was the only player in action as he delivered two spells, making his case strong for the third Test of the series. 
<h2>I think it'll be how I pull up in the 24 hours following it - Josh Hazlewood on his fitness </h2>
While talking about his fitness, Josh Hazlewood revealed that a call related to his availability for the third Test would be taken after 24 hours. He also added that he has ticked a few boxes right, and he is hopeful of returning. Speaking to Fox Cricket, he explained: 
"I think it'll be how I pull up in the 24 hours following it. It’s just that repetitive (action) and obviously two spells makes a big difference. 
"Cooling down pretty much fully and then going again on the same day, and the intensity has got to be right up there as well. So a few boxes to tick, but it's probably the 24 hours that follow and pulling up again the next day and then thinking 'yeah, I'd be right to go again if I had to'." 
Should Josh Hazlewood be fit for the third Test, Australia will have to take a call between him and Scott Boland for the match. The latter was pretty impressive in the second match as he picked 5 wickets across two innings in the pink-ball Test and helped India win. 
If Josh Hazlewood gets fit for the third Test, it will be a huge boost for Australia and a problem for India. The Pat Cummins-led side have enjoyed playing their cricket in Gabba, Brisbane. However, when the two teams collided at the venue last time, it saw India winning the match and creating history.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.icccricketschedule.com/Rift-in-the-Indian-dressing-room-Adelaides-loss-fuels-rumours-of-division-in-coaching-staff/#google_vignette">Rift in the Indian dressing room? Adelaide's loss fuels rumours of division in coaching staff</a>

Australia is all set to be boosted by the inclusion of Josh Hazlewood for the third Test against India

Josh Hazlewood, who was the best Australia pacer in the first Test, missed the Adelaide game due to a side strain against India

More-problems-for-India-Australia-set-to-be-boosted-by….

India suffered a shambolic loss in the second Test against Australia. They were at the receiving end of the 10-wicket thrashing at the hands of hosts in the pink-ball Test as they took perfect revenge for the Perth Test and levelled the series. 
India looked extremely horrible with bat and ball and was clueless throughout the game, which concluded in just three days. All the batters failed to go big, and then the bowlers too struggled to control the pink ball and pick early wickets happened in the Perth Test, which the visitors won by 295 runs. 
However, the loss in the second Test seems to have created tensions among the Indian camp. The rumours of the rift have started to fuel, and this came, especially after the Indian coaching staff conducted the net sessions just after the team's loss in the Adelaide Test.
<h2> There have been rumours of a rift between the Indian coaching staff</h2>
There have been rumours of a rift between the Indian coaching staff, and this came after bowling coach Morne Morkel, assistant coaches Abhishek Nayar and Ryan ten Doeschate, and fielding coach T. Dilip were seen having an intense chat among themselves while standing in the middle of nets. 
What fuelled rumours of the rift was head coach Gautam Gambhir was not there, and the rest of the coaches were having talks among themselves when it should been with the head coach. Also, Abhishek Nayar's finger-pointing gesture towards Morne Morkel didn't go well with many and sparked rumours of division. 
The picture of this was posted by a Journalist of RevSportz, and it sparked various rumours about the rift. Here's the picture:
<img src="https://admin.icccricketschedule.com/uploads/images/202412/image_870x_6756849961a7a.jpg" alt="">
India played the first Test in Perth with a positive mindset. They were all over the opposition with bat and ball. However, it was a completely different effort in the second Test. The Adelaide game also was the shortest match down under as it lasted just 1031 balls across four innings.

India suffered a shambolic loss in the second Test against Australia in Adelaide.

India looked extremely horrible with bat and ball in Adelaide.

Rift in the Indian dressing room? Adelaide's loss fuels rumours of division in coaching staff

Rift-in-the-Indian-dressing-room-Adelaides-loss-fuels-rumours-of-division-in-coaching-staff

IND vs AUS 3rd Test: The Border-Gavaskar Trophy is at the level with a 1-1 scoreline. All the speculations of India dominating the rest of the series after the Perth victory were left untouched just after the three-day Pink-ball test match.
How dramatically the tides have shifted for the visitors since Jasprit Bumrah led the side. India appeared on track to assert their supremacy over Australia and the entire Border-Gavaskar Trophy after a stunning and unforeseen triumph at Perth Stadium, defying expectations and expert predictions.
However, the scenario changed drastically with Rohit Sharma taking the lead over. Unfortunately for him, most of his tactics and plans at the Adelaide Oval failed to deliver, leaving the team struggling to regain momentum.
The aftermath of the Adelaide loss is unlikely to see the Indian team facing the same level of harsh criticism or being written off as the Australians were following their defeat in Perth. The scrutiny is often harsher and more unforgiving for the home side. Besides, India has earned some goodwill thanks to their commanding performance in the opening Test, which still adds weight to their campaign.
Let's take a look at the areas where the Indian team could make a change or improvement before going to the third Test:
<h2>The Changes India could make for the IND vs AUS 3rd Test</h2>
India faces a tough challenge with the short turnaround before the third Test in Brisbane. It will be a test of resilience for the bowlers to recover in time and for Jasprit Bumrah to sustain his exceptional energy levels. For the batting unit, the focus will be on finding much-needed consistency to support the team’s efforts in this crucial match.
<img class="img-additional" src="https://admin.icccricketschedule.com/uploads/images/202412/image_430x256_67567da01e404.jpg" alt="">
Mindset: Yes! There is a need to have an attacking and aggressive mindset of the entire team for the remaining three matches. From the Siraj-Head incident, the Indian Team can take this as a challenge and quite the whole of Australia right at the Gabba. 
Rohit Sharma has won many test matches for India with his style of leading. He has a wonderful mix of aggression and calmness but that just might not be sufficient for the conditions we are in!
Combination: For combination, Why? There is definitely no room for any change in the playing11 as of now. What would you change? Rohit, Jaiswal, Gill, Kohli, KL Rahul, Pant, and Nitish Reddy are just untouchables in the current scenario and the fast Bowling unit is also giving out their full. However, the skipper could think of replacing Jadeja with Ashwin, as he provides better batting but it is not that necessary. 
Position: Not much to change in the team combination but one thing is for sure, i.e., batting order. Ravi Shastri, Sunil Gavaskar, and many others said on air, that they didn't see any reason for Rohit Sharma to bat down the order now. He has been his best when batted top of the order and that position gave birth to the New Rohit Sharma and he must return to the top order. 
Now, after all, India had bad batting days at Adelaide, inefficient bowling, and they were lacking confidence for sure. The Men in Blue are sure to bounce back as they have done in the past. A complete team game and supporting each other is going to win us the Gabba Test once again. 
READ: <a href="https://www.icccricketschedule.com/Whats-next-for-Rohit-Sharma-Test-failures-spark-calls-for-his-retirement/">What's next for Rohit Sharma? Test failures spark calls for his retirement</a>

Mindset, Combination, or Else! What Changes could India make for the IND vs AUS 3rd Test

India again lost the all-hyped pink ball test and now all eyes are on Rohit Sharma and management for the third test. India could learn a lot from their mistakes at Adelaide Oval and let's look at the improvements that India could make.

The loss of India in the second match of the series has put the scoreline 1-1. Are there going to be any big changes in the team India? Let's find out.

Mindset, Combination, or Else! What Changes could India make for the IND vs AUS 3rd Test at Gabba?

mindset-combination-or-else-what-changes-could-india-make-for-the-ind-vs-aus-3rd-test-at-gabba

The WTC standings saw a major change in the rankings after the dramatic Adelaide win of Australia over the visitors, India, who didn’t seem very confident facing the pink ball, as even their skipper admitted to not having batted well. 
 
On the other hand, a simultaneous series held between South Africa and visitors Sri Lanka is at its all-time high, with the Proteas looking strong to make another major shift in the points table with a win in the ongoing second test at Gqeberha. 
 
With teams like England, Pakistan, and New Zealand ruled out of contention for any further chances for qualification despite all-win situations, only the top four teams are left with scanty to large chances for qualification. 
 
<h2 dir="ltr">Let’s take a good look at the WTC final qualification scenarios for the franchises: </h2>
 
<h3 dir="ltr">India </h3>
 <img class="img-additional" src="https://admin.icccricketschedule.com/uploads/images/202412/image_430x256_67564b947a9fd.jpg" alt="" width="752" height="468">
The table toppers for the last three editions of the WTC have slipped down to the lowest ever in their WTC history. India has never left the top two spots since 2019 when the first WTC cycle began; however, after the pink-ball test loss, they now stand at an all-time low at the no. 3 position behind the Aussies and Proteas. 
 
India is left with 3 matches in the WTC campaign, which will be played against Australia in the <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Border%E2%80%93Gavaskar_Trophy">Border-Gavaskar Trophy</a>, and now the Indian side needs to manage 2 wins and a draw to make their way through to the finals. 
 
No. of wins needed from remaining matches: 2 wins and a draw
 
<h3 dir="ltr">Australia </h3>
 
The current table toppers also do not look very firm at the top, as South Africa, with a dominating victory, can take the position of the table toppers as a fight ensues for the two final spots in the WTC. 
 
However, as of now, for the defending champions and to the joy of Pat Cummins, Australia needs to win only 3 of their remaining test matches, which are scheduled in this WTC. 
 
3 matches to be played in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy against India
2 matches to be played against Sri Lanka
 
With a three-match home advantage, the Australians can fancy their chances to win at least 2 games and retain themselves at the top, as any further wins for India already eradicate their qualification chances, which makes the Aussies the second favorite. 
 <img class="img-additional" src="https://admin.icccricketschedule.com/uploads/images/202412/image_430x256_67564bb6bbf00.jpg" alt="" width="743" height="462">
<h3 dir="ltr">South Africa </h3>
 
The Proteas have always been drafted as one of the greatest teams to have played the longest format of the game; however, their record has never been great since the WTC began. 
 
This time around, however, Temba Bavuma has turned the tables for the Proteas, as they are the likely team to fancy their chances most in the WTC final, playing all their remaining tests at home. 
 
South Africa will play their last match against Sri Lanka with a decider awaited today, while their next two matches come under home conditions against Pakistan, a not-so-confident side this WTC. 
 
With a 2-win situation in the remaining games at home, South Africa currently looks like the most dominant side for one of the spots in the WTC final. 
 
<h3 dir="ltr">Sri Lanka </h3>
 
The Lankans are undoubtedly one of the teams in the WTC that have posed a major threat to many teams like New Zealand and England under both home and away conditions. 
 
With still slim chances of a win remaining against the Proteas in the second test, they can turn the tables to their end and play their remaining home tests against Australia with huge confidence. 
 
Sri Lanka has a stunning home record this WTC, and hence they impose a serious threat to the Aussies, as Sri Lanka is in an all-win situation to make their WTC chances assured for the first time. 
 
The likes of England, Pakistan, New Zealand, the West Indies, and Bangladesh have been officially knocked off any further chances for qualification into the WTC finals of 2023/25 to be played at The Lord’s.

ALSO READ: <a href="https://www.icccricketschedule.com/Massive-shift-in-WTC-Standings-after-Australia-crush-India-at-the-Adelaide-Oval-in-the-Pink-Ball-Test/">Massive Shift in WTC standings post Australia's historic Adelaide win </a>

WTC final scenarios : Strong fight between India, Australia, and South Africa for the two final spots

The major changes caused in the WTC standings post India's Adelaide loss have created a stir between India, Australia, and South Africa as they ensure an intense battle in the quest for the two WTC final spots.

WTC final scenarios after massive changes caused in the WTC standings; strong fight between India, Australia, and South Africa for the two final spots

WTC-final-scenarios-after-massive-changes-caused-in-the-WTC-standings-strong-fight-between-India,-Australia,-and-South-Africa-for-the-two-final-spots

The Indian Cricket Team under the leadership of Rohit Sharma suffered an embarrassing defeat by a margin of 10 wickets versus fierce-rivals Australia in the 2nd Test-Match of the 2024 Border Gavaskar Trophy series. In the Adelaide Day &amp; Night Test, the Men in Blue were poor in both the departments of the game. 
Their failure got exposed when no Indian batter was able to go past the 50 run mark. Another weakness which got exposed following the loss in Adelaide was of the team's over-reliance on ace-bowler Jasprit Bumrah. Keeping all of these aspects in mind, let's take a look at 5 players who are responsible for the Rohit Sharma-led team's crushing defeat in Adelaide. 
<h2>1. Rohit Sharma</h2>
It's no secret that Indian skipper Rohit Sharma does have a tendency of not performing well with the bat on Australian soil. He missed the opening fixture of the series due to the birth of his second child. 
He did make his return to the team in the 2nd test but his return didn't make any kind of a difference. Keeping in mind the performance of KL Rahul as the opener in the 1st test, Sharma decided to demote himself at the number six position so that the former LSG skipper can continue opening the inning. 
However, this experiment proved to be a complete failure as the Indian skipper managed to score just 3 and 6 runs in both the innings of the Adelaide Test-Match. This performance didn't help Indian at all and the Men in Blue fell to an embarrassing defeat versus the Aussies. It's worth noting that Rohit has an average of less than 28 in Australia with the bat. 
<h2>2. Virat Kohli</h2>
Eite Indian Batter and the Legendary Virat Kohli loves scoring runs versus Australia especially in their home conditions. As soon as he brought up yet another hundred in the 2nd inning of the Perth Test-Match, fans expected him to perform well with the bat once again in Adelaide. 
However, much to the dismay of the Indian fans, Kohli managed to score jus 18 runs across both the innings of the 2nd Test. This performance of the 36-year-old angered a lot of fans as everyone had really high expectations from the former Indian skipper due to his 2,000 plus run record in the history of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy series and Kohli's failure with the bat resulted in the Men in Blue suffering a middle-order collapse.
<h2>3.Shubman Gill</h2>
Shubman Gill, famously known by the name of 'Prince of Indian Cricket' didn't take part in the Perth Test-Match due to a thumb-injury. But, as soon as he recovered from that injury, he was drafted back into the Playing XI immediately. 
He showed signs of being in a good Nick with the bat, scoring a half-century in the practice-match versus the Prime Minister's XI of Australia. 
But, when it came to performing well in the Adelaide Test-Match, Gill's bat didn't do anything. The 25-year-old got off to really good starts in both of the innings in the 2nd Test, scoring 31 and 28 runs respectively. 
However, his failure to understand the pace and bounce of the surface and his inability of converting of good starts into big scores created problems for the Men in Blue and this proved to be a big reason behind their crushing defeat in Perth.
<h2>4. Harshit Rana</h2>
Right arm seamer Harshit Rana made his International debut for the Indian Cricket Team in the currently ongoing 2024 Border Gavaskar Trophy series versus Australia. While he had an impressive debut in Perth, dismissing four batters across both the innings, he completely underperformed and failed in playing the role of the third pacer in the Adelaide Test-Match. 
During the Kangaroos' 1st inning, Rana was the only Indian bowler to go wicketless. He was also guilty of the Men in Blue's defeat in Adelaide as he gave away runs at a high economy rate of 5.40, which is really not acceptable in Modern day Cricket. 
He has to play the supporting role to perfection in the remaining matches of the series if he wants to keep his place in the Playing XI.
<h2>5. Ravichandran Ashwin</h2>
Ravi Ashwin is undoubtedly one of the best Indian spinner and the one of the best bowler in International Cricket. But, when a certain player is in good form, how costly it proves to drop him from the Starting XI, the Indian management must have understood it very well. 
Washington has been in good form since the series versus New Zealand, where he dismissed 16 batters and scored 89 runs with the bat. In the Perth Test-Match, the 25-year-old scored 33 runs with the bat across two innings and dismissed two batters with his economical off spin bowling. 
In the place of Sundar, Ashwin who replaced him for the Adelaide Test-Match, wasn't effective with both bat and ball, managing to amas just 29 runs with the bat and picking up just a single-wicket in both innings. This ineffectiveness of Ashwin proved to be very costly for the Rohit Sharma-led team and it won't be surprising to see Sundar come back in the playing 11 for the 3rd Test-Match.

Do Read: <a href="https://www.icccricketschedule.com/Massive-shift-in-WTC-Standings-after-Australia-crush-India-at-the-Adelaide-Oval-in-the-Pink-Ball-Test/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Massive shift in WTC Standings after Australia crush India at the Adelaide Oval in the Pink Ball Test</a>

Virat Kohli, Harshit Rana, Ravi Ashwin, Shubman Gill and Rohit Sharma weren't at their best in the Adelaide Test-Match vs Australia

Australia defeated India by 10 wickets in the second match of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024. Many players are to be blamed for this defeat of Team India.

IND vs AUS: 5 Players who are responsible for India's crushing defeat in Adelaide, all of them underperformed

ind-vs-aus-5-players-who-are-responsible-for-indias-crushing-defeat-in-adelaide-all-of-them-underperformed

India captain Rohit Sharma has come under massive pressure. The hashtag related to his 'retirement' is trending, and this in itself reveals how the tables have turned for someone who guided the team to the T20 World Cup 2024 and was the most loved name in the country. 
The recent Test failures have made Rohit Sharma a villain, but it's fair to say that the captain of late hasn't been at his best. The home season, where India played 6 Tests, wasn't great for him and the ongoing tour to Australia hasn't treated him well either so far. 
Rohit Sharma, opening the innings, failed in the Tests against Bangladesh as well as New Zealand at home. It was a horrible outing for him with bat and to worsen the case more for him, it was under his leadership that India faced a 3-0 whitewash in the series against the Kiwis. 
Rohit Sharma then missed the first Test against Australia, and while it was a great outing for the team, his absence wasn't missed at all. Jasprit Bumrah captained the team in Perth, and under him, there were glimpses of the way the team played under Virat Kohli, aggressive and not shying away from giving it to the opposition. 
<h2>Rohit Sharma sacrifices his opening slot, fails miserably in middle-order</h2>
Even the Indian openers in KL Rahul and Yashasvi Jaiswal scripted history and added a a historic partnership and helped India win the game. The duo put on a double-century stand, which was the highest by an Indian pair in Australia, as the visitors won the game by a massive margin of 295 runs. 
The pressure was straightway on Rohit Sharma as he took charge of the team that won in Perth, and also talks related to the opening spot did rounds. The captain, however, did a selfless act as he sacrificed the opening spot, where he had scored a lot of runs, for KL Rahul and Yashasvi Jaiswal. 
The move to bring himself down to middle order didn't work either. Rohit failed terribly in both innings and to worsen the case, India lost the Adelaide Test as well. This has put the captain under the radar of many, and with him not doing great with the bat either, things aren't looking great for him. 
<h2>Rohit Sharma might get dropped if he fails to score in Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25</h2>
Ahead of the series, there were lots of reports which claimed that if Rohit Sharma fails to score in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25, then his career in the longest format will be over. It was learned that team management would make some strong decisions and won't be adding seniors for the next cycle of <a href="https://icccricketschedule.com/bgt-updated-wtc-points-table-following-indias-win-in-the-1st-test-match/">WTC</a>. 
With 142 runs at 11.83 in 6 Test matches this season, time is running for Rohit Sharma. He surely needs to get a big ton under his belt and lead from the front to reclaim his stake back. However, if he fails to perform, it won't be a surprise if it would be curtains for him in Tests.

India captain Rohit Sharma has come under massive pressure.

What's next for Rohit Sharma? Test failures spark calls for his retirement

Whats-next-for-Rohit-Sharma-Test-failures-spark-calls-for-his-retirement

IND vs AUS 2024: The red-ball cricket has picked up a new height of excitement and popularity, and the Border Gavaskar Trophy did it in India. The Men in Blue are in Australia for the 2024-25 Border-Gavaskar series and here we are, with the top 4 key Indian Players for the IND vs AUS 1st Test 2024-25.



<div class="wp-block-rank-math-toc-block" id="rank-math-toc"><nav>
<ul>
<li class=""><a href="#india-squad-for-border-gavaskar-trophy">India Squad for Border Gavaskar Trophy</a></li>
<li class=""><a href="#top-4-key-indian-players-for-the-ind-vs-aus-1st-test">Top 4 Key Indian Players for the IND vs AUS 1st Test</a></li>
</ul>
</nav></div>



Currently, Pakistan are in Australia for a T20I series but all the attention of the world Cricket media is on the forthcoming India tour of Australia 2024. Pakistan's head coach Jason Gillespie said "it has felt from Pakistan?s perspective that based on selections and promotion of the series that their priorities have been India. Everyone can see that, it?s pretty obvious.?



That might be true but there is a lot of cheer around for the upcoming test series against India in Australia. Indian and Australian teams are pouring out the last drop of sweat in the nets to get prepared for the series and with just less than a week left, the strategies and plans would have started to build up.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://admin.icccricketschedule.com/uploads/2024/10/WhatsApp-Image-2024-10-26-at-07.02.51_fb011562-1024x683.jpg" alt="India vs Australia Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024: Full Indian Squad, New Faces, and Complete Test Schedule" class="wp-image-148936">
<figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Team India | Pic: X(BCCI)</figcaption>
</figure>



BCCI picked up a strong 18-men squad for the five-match test series against Australia led by Rohit Sharma with Jasprit Bumrah being his deputy. Below is the full squad of India for the Border Gavaskar Trophy:-



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="india-squad-for-border-gavaskar-trophy">India Squad for Border Gavaskar Trophy</h2>



Rohit Sharma (C), Jasprit Bumrah (VC), Yashasvi Jaiswal, Abhimanyu Easwaran, Shubman Gill, Virat Kohli, KL Rahul, Rishabh Pant (WK), Sarfaraz Khan, Dhruv Jurel (WK), R Ashwin, R Jadeja, Mohd. Siraj, Akash Deep, Prasidh Krishna, Harshit Rana, Nitish Kumar Reddy, Washington Sundar. <a href="https://www.bcci.tv/articles/2024/news/55556156/squads-for-india-s-tour-of-south-africa-border-gavaskar-trophy-announced?platform=international&amp;type=men">(SOURCE-BCCI OFFICIAL)</a>



Let's take a look at the top 4 key Indian Players for the IND vs AUS 1st Test 2024-25:



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="top-4-key-indian-players-for-the-ind-vs-aus-1st-test">Top 4 Key Indian Players for the IND vs AUS 1st Test</h2>



1- Jasprit Bumrah: Jasprit Bumrah has to be the most important player in the current squad. Australian pitches do have bounce, pace, and carry, so the players are very used to it. It is pretty hard to stop the Australian batting line-up in such conditions if taken for granted.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img src="https://admin.icccricketschedule.com/uploads/2024/09/gettyimages-1982304457-612x612-1.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-147240">
<figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Jasprit Bumrah (Photo by Stu Forster/Getty Images)</figcaption>
</figure>



Bumrah has been the elite bowler of the Indian team when it comes to foreign tours and this time too, he is the most important player for the series from an Indian perspective. His numbers in Australia are self-explanatory as in just 7 matches, he has picked up 32 wickets with an average of just 21.



2- Virat Kohli: The recent form of Virat Kohli in the test format is a bit concerning but Australia would never underestimate him. He has single-handedly won the entire matches against Australia and his numbers justify his presence in Australia.



In 13 matches played in Australia, Virat has collected 1352 runs with an average of over 54. He has scored 6 centuries and 4 half-centuries in the continent.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img src="https://admin.icccricketschedule.com/uploads/2023/06/IMG_1051.jpg" alt="IND vs ENG" class="wp-image-114539">
<figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli | Twitter</figcaption>
</figure>



3- Rohit Sharma: The skipper Rohit Sharma will lay the foundation of Indian innings. In the last couple of months, we have seen an ultra-aggressive Rohit Sharma on the ground. His new Avatar and outstanding ability to bat big on any given condition raise his stakes.



He didn't get the best of the opportunities in Australia in the past but this time he will be on the spotlight for the entire India. Sharma has played 7 matches in Australia and has 408 runs under his belt. He is expected to raise those numbers in this tour.



4- Ravichandran Ashwin: Whenever India vs Australia is discussed, Ravi Ashwin is one of those names that strikes first to your mind. He has been the best Indian spinner in the Australian pitches. Not only his unplayable spin bowling, but his ability to bat has been quite handy for India in the past.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://admin.icccricketschedule.com/uploads/2024/11/389704-1024x684.jpg" alt="IND VS AUS BORDER GAVASKAR TROPHY 2024-25" class="wp-image-149210">
<figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Ravichandran Ashwin of India was decent with the ball in the New Zealand Test-Series | Image: BCCI</figcaption>
</figure>



In his 10 matches in Australia, he has 384 runs under his belt and 39 wickets with 88 maidens. He will play an important role in the Indian lineup against Australia in the Border Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25.



READ: <a href="https://www.icccricketschedule.com/javed-miandad-fires-a-warning-to-the-indian-cricket-team-following-their-refusal-to-travel-to-pakistan-for-the-champions-trophy/" data-type="link" data-id="https://www.icccricketschedule.com/javed-miandad-fires-a-warning-to-the-indian-cricket-team-following-their-refusal-to-travel-to-pakistan-for-the-champions-trophy/">Javed Miandad fires a warning to the Indian Cricket Team following their refusal to travel to Pakistan for the Champions Trophy</a>

India's squad highlights for Australia tour:- No Shami for the BGT.- Easwaran picked as backup opener.- Nitish Kumar Reddy picked for BGT.- Axar & Shardul not picked for BGT.- Rana and Prasidh picked.- Kuldeep struggling with groin.- Khaleel, Mukesh and Saini?in?reserves.

IND vs AUS: Top 4 Key Indian Players Against Australia for the 1st Test | Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25

ind-vs-aus-top-4-key-indian-players-against-australia-for-the-1st-test-border-gavaskar-trophy-2024-25

India pacer Mohammed Siraj was in the news along with Australia batter Travis Head following the two were involved in an altercation. This became the talk of the town and saw Speedster facing a lot of hatred from the Australian crowd. 
It all started after Mohammed Siraj castled the stumps of Travis Head in the second innings. The pacer bowled a peach of a delivery, which was yorker and the batter had no clue to it. Notably, the ball before that, Head hit a massive six. 
As Mohammed Siraj removed Travis Head, he came up with the brutal send-off, and that didn't go well with the batter. He, too, said some harsh words, and this became the talk of the town, with the Pacer receiving a lot of flakes, especially when he gave a send-off to a batter who hit a century. 
After the end of the day's play, Travis Head expressed his disappointment with Mohammed Siraj's send-off. He claimed that he said "well bowled" to the pacer, and then when he said some words, he too had to reply with some fierce words to take his stance. 
<h2>In the press conference, he said the wrong thing. He lied. Noway, he said, well-bowled - Mohammed Siraj on Travis Head </h2>
This, too, went against Mohammed Siraj as criticism got even more severe. However, at the start of Day 3, the India pacer made a massive revelation. He said that the Australian batter lied in public and it was he who was abused first. Speaking to Star Sports, he explained: 
"I was enjoying bowling to him. It was a good battle because he was batting well. When the batter hits you for a six on a good ball, it feels bad. That gave me energy. After bowling him out, I celebrated. Then he abused me. You can see it on TV as well. In the start, it was my celebration, I didn't say anything to him. 
"In the press conference, he said the wrong thing. He lied. Noway, he said, well-bowled. We respect everyone. I always respect everyone because cricket is a gentleman's game. Travis Head's actions were wrong. I did not feel good". 
<h2>Watch: Mohammed Siraj and Travis Head clarify things in between the game</h2>
However, after his statement, both Mohammed Siraj and Travis Head were seen having a conversation in the middle when the pacer came out to bat. The two were seen clarifying the things and the video of the incident went viral.
Here's the video:
Coming to the match, India went on to face a shambolic loss in the second Test as Australia completed a 10-wicket win. The Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25 is now levelled at 1-1 with three more games to go.

India pacer Mohammed Siraj was in the news along with Australia batter Travis Head following the two were involved in an altercation.

As Mohammed Siraj removed Travis Head, he came up with the brutal send-off, and that didn't go well with the batter.