Former Australian cricketer Ian Chappell has urged Rohit Sharma-led Team India to prioritize the fitness of key players Jasprit Bumrah and Rishabh Pant in their upcoming matches. Chappell’s remarks come after India’s commanding 280-run victory over Bangladesh in the first Test match at the MA Chidambaram Stadium on Sunday.
In his column for ESPNcricinfo, Chappell emphasized the importance of form and fitness as India leads the World Test Championship (WTC) standings. India’s upcoming WTC fixtures include a home series against New Zealand and an away series against Australia.
“India’s main goal should be to get as many players into form as possible while avoiding major injuries. However, the focus must be on ensuring the fitness of Jasprit Bumrah and Rishabh Pant,” Chappell said.
Chappell also praised Pant’s growth as a wicketkeeper, particularly his improved skills against spinners. “Before his serious injury, Pant’s ability to stand up to the stumps significantly improved after an ultimatum from Shastri. His evolution from a questionable keeper against spinners to a skilled gloveman at the stumps shows his dedication,” he added.
India’s upcoming series against Australia in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy is highly anticipated, beginning on November 22 with the first Test in Perth. The series will include the exciting day-night Test format at Adelaide Oval from December 6 to 10, followed by matches in Brisbane (December 14-18), Melbourne for the Boxing Day Test (December 26-30), and concluding at the Sydney Cricket Ground from January 3 to 7.
With such a packed schedule, Chappell’s call for ensuring Bumrah and Pant’s fitness is timely as both players are crucial to India’s chances in the upcoming WTC matches and the highly competitive Border-Gavaskar series.
