Sat Nov 16 20:08:54 IST 2024: ## India’s Test Squad Faces Batting Crisis Ahead of Australia Series
**Perth, Australia –** India’s upcoming Test series against Australia has been thrown into disarray with a series of injuries and unavailability impacting their batting lineup. With captain Rohit Sharma unlikely to play in the first Test due to the recent birth of his child, the team now faces a further setback. Shubman Gill, a strong contender to open the innings in Rohit’s absence, has reportedly suffered a left hand fracture, casting serious doubt on his participation in the Perth Test starting next Friday.
The injury crisis has prompted the Indian team management to keep Devdutt Padikkal, a player from the India A squad, in Perth. While it remains unclear whether Padikkal will be added to the main squad or reserves, his presence suggests a desperate attempt to bolster the weakened batting order. Padikkal performed reasonably well in the India A series against Australia, scoring 36, 88, 26, and 1 across four innings.
Adding to India’s woes, Lokesh Rahul, another potential opener, is nursing a bruised elbow sustained during an intra-squad match. Although considered precautionary, his absence from the second day of the match simulation raises concerns. Should Gill be ruled out, Abhimanyu Easwaran could make his Test debut, leaving India with limited experienced batting options. The Indian selectors will be closely monitoring Padikkal’s performance in the final day of the intra-squad match. The precarious situation leaves India’s batting line-up vulnerable heading into the crucial first Test against Australia.
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