Sun Nov 17 19:06:14 UTC 2024: ## Padikkal and Rana Set for India Debuts in Perth Test
**Perth, Australia** – India is set to field two debutants in the first Border-Gavaskar Trophy Test against Australia, starting November 22nd in Perth. With captain Rohit Sharma and opener Shubman Gill ruled out due to the birth of Sharma’s second child and a fractured thumb respectively, Devdutt Padikkal and Harshit Rana are poised to fill the gaps.
Padikkal, who previously debuted against England earlier this year, is expected to bat at number three. Gill’s replacement was confirmed by reports citing Indian team management. Meanwhile, KL Rahul will open the innings. Rohit Sharma will join the team ahead of the second Test in Adelaide.
Rana, a Delhi speedster and Kolkata Knight Riders player, is likely to make his international debut after impressing team management with his performance in practice matches, particularly his bouncers. The right-arm fast bowler boasts an impressive first-class record of 43 wickets in 10 matches.
Jasprit Bumrah will captain the side in Rohit Sharma’s absence. The match will be a crucial opener to the four-match series.
First Piper 