Cheteshwar Pujara, veteran India batter, has suggested one change in the Indian XI for the upcoming third BGT 2024 Test. This match will be played in Gabba, Brisbane from December 14 onwards, with the five-Test series level at 1-1.

India had won the first Test in Perth by 295 runs under Jasprit Bumrah’s captaincy but suffered a 10-wicket loss in the pink-ball Test in Adelaide.

Cheteshwar Pujara has discussed potential changes to India's playing XI for the important third BGT 2024 Test in Brisbane. He mentioned that Washington Sundar may replace Ravichandran Ashwin.  

Sundar demonstrated his bat and ball skills during India's 295-run triumph in the series opener at Perth. He was then dropped from the Adelaide Test, and Ashwin took his position.  

“I feel only one change might happen. Since the batting wasn't good, Washington Sundar can come in place of R Ashwin. Should someone come in place of Harshit Rana? In my opinion, no. You backed him and he performed well in the first match,” Pujara said on Star Sports.

He also backed bowler Harshit Rana, despite a dismal performance in the second Test in Adelaide. Rana was wicketless and was pricey in the Adelaide Test.

Pujara emphasized the necessity of ongoing support for Rana, despite his difficulties in Adelaide. Pujara believes that dismissing a player after a single poor performance could harm team morale.

“He is a good bowler. You cannot drop him just because one match went bad. Probably the only change for me would be Sundar for Ashwin if the team feels the batting lineup needs strengthening,” Pujara added.

Rana's performance varied significantly between the two Tests. He returned with four wickets in Perth, including 3 for 48 in the first innings, but struggled with both bat and ball in Adelaide. He recorded a pair and had a lackluster bowling display.