India’s head coach, Gautam Gambhir, will not accompany the team for their two-day tour match against the Prime Minister's XI in Canberra on November 30, as he has returned to India for personal reasons. According to a BCCI representative, Gambhir is expected to rejoin the squad before their next assignment, a much-anticipated day-night Test in Adelaide starting December 6. While the Canberra match will be a daytime affair, it is set to feature the pink Kookaburra ball, preparing the players for the conditions in Adelaide.
Currently leading the series 1-0, India made a remarkable comeback after enduring a 3-0 series defeat at home to New Zealand. In Gambhir's absence, assistant coaches Abhishek Nayar, Ryan ten Doeschate, and Morne Morkel will step in to manage the team. Adding to the drama, India’s regular captain, Rohit Sharma, has rejoined the squad after missing the first Test due to paternity leave. Rohit’s return, however, poses a selection conundrum, as KL Rahul thrived at the top of the order under challenging circumstances during Rohit’s absence.
Meanwhile, Shubman Gill’s potential comeback adds another layer of complexity. The young batter, sidelined due to a fractured thumb, could regain fitness in time for the Adelaide Test. However, with no concrete updates on his recovery, it appears unlikely that Gill will feature in the Canberra tour game. Medical evaluations will become more frequent as the Adelaide Test draws nearer, leaving the team with critical decisions to make regarding the final batting line-up.
India’s journey through this series continues to deliver surprises, promising fans more exciting moments in the matches ahead.