Australia vs India 2018-19, 2nd Test: Tactical changes both teams could make

India picking Ravindra Jadeja instead of Hanuma Vihari

Ravindra Jadeja instead of Hanuma Vihari?

The four-match Test series presented an ideal opportunity for someone like Rohit Sharma to cement his spot in the Test team. But the nature of his dismissals, especially in the first innings at Adelaide after looking good left a lot to be desired.

But ahead of the second Test match at Perth, news came in that Rohit Sharma is out with a back injury sustained while fielding in the first Test match. So, this gives Hanuma Vihari a perfect opportunity to make the number six position his own.

He looked dogged, solid and showed that he possesses the qualities to make it big in Test match cricket after his performances in England recently. It was surprising to see him being left out for Rohit Sharma. But as luck would have it, an injury to Rohit Sharma would most definitely give him an opportunity to make it to the playing XI.

This may change if Virat Kohli-Ravi Shastri think otherwise and decide to unleash the left-arm spin of Ravindra Jadeja. Jaddu was very impressive in his only chance at Southampton in England- both with bat and ball. But will the selectors go in with him at the number 7 position?

Will they risk having a rather unstable lower middle order in Rishabh Pant and Ravindra Jadeja or will they go for the expected option in slotting a frontline batsman Hanuma Vihari in place of an injured Rohit Sharma.

This could be a tactical masterstroke if it happens as Ravindra Jadeja is among the finest fielders going around in world cricket, can hold one end up with his accurate finger spin and can contribute some handy runs as well.

With talks going around that the pitch will be fast and bouncy, India would most likely stick to selecting a frontline batsman in Hanuma Vihari, but including Ravindra Jadeja is not a bad idea either.