Cheteshwar Pujara’s absence from India’s Test squad for their upcoming tour of Australia has sparked discussions about the team’s batting dynamics. Former Australian all-rounder Shane Watson believes that India’s younger batters, such as Yashasvi Jaiswal, can fill the void left by Pujara and continue to pose a significant threat to the Australian bowling attack.
Pujara played a pivotal role in India’s historic Test series victories in Australia in 2018-19 and 2020-21. His ability to bat for extended periods and absorb pressure was crucial to India’s success. However, Watson believes that Jaiswal, despite his contrasting batting style, can have a similar impact on the Australian bowlers.
“Jaiswal hasn’t given the opposition a chance to get him out,” Watson said. “If he and other aggressive batters can put pressure on the Aussie bowlers, they can still have the same effect as Pujara.”
Watson also highlighted Rishabh Pant as another Indian batter who could pose a serious threat to Australia. Pant has a remarkable record in Australia, having scored 624 runs in 12 innings at a strike rate of 72.13.
“Pant has great memories from his last tour,” Watson said. “He’s come through his challenges and is now an even better player. I think he’s going to have a big series.”
In addition to the batting, Watson identified Jasprit Bumrah as a key player for India. Bumrah has 32 wickets at 21.25 from seven Tests in Australia and is considered one of the best fast bowlers in the world.
“Bumrah is so good in all conditions,” Watson said. “He’s going to be very effective in Australia. If he has a big series, he can really provide Australia some big challenges.”
Overall, Watson believes that India’s batting lineup, despite the absence of Pujara, has the potential to trouble the Australian bowlers and continue their success in Australia.
