Johannesburg, 1/1: India defeated hosts South Africa in the Centurion Test to take a 1-0 lead in the 3-Test series. Now he has a chance to end a 29-year drought by winning Johannesburg. Coach Rahul Dravid and captain Virat Kohli will have an eye on this. By the way, Kohli rarely tinkers with winning combinations. But looking at Johannesburg’s condition and pitch, two major changes can be made in the playing-11. Fast bowler Umesh Yadav can be included in the team instead of Shardul Thakur. At the same time, in place of R Ashwin, India can go with an additional batsman in the Johannesburg Test. If this happens then Hanuma Vihari will be seen in the team.
Whenever Virat Kohli chooses the playing-11 of the Test abroad, he likes to give a chance to the bowling all-rounder as the fifth bowler. This keeps the balance of the team right. For this reason, Shardul Thakur gets a place in the playing-11. However, grass is visible on the wicket of the Wanderers and to take advantage of this, Virat Kohli can go for a change in the winning combination.
Why Umesh can get preference over Shardul?
It has rained in Johannesburg in the last few days and there is grass on the pitch. The moisture present in the air will help the seam bowlers a lot. In such a situation, Umesh Yadav’s swing bowling can be useful for Team India in this condition. Shardul Thakur could not make much impact with the ball and bat in the Centurion Test. He took only 2 wickets while bowling 16 overs with 14 runs.
Umesh can bowl continuously at a speed of 140 kmph. His full length ball can have more impact on Johannesburg’s wicket. For this reason, the claim of Umesh being elected is stronger. Umesh’s presence as the fourth fast bowler will increase the strength of the team.
Umesh’s pace and length suit Johannesburg
Former South African video analyst Prasanna Agoram said in a conversation with the Times of India, “The pitch of Newlands and Centurion helps South African bowlers who bowl short lengths. Whereas in Johannesburg the bowler has to keep his length full. This is the reason why India has got success on this ground. The length and pace at which Umesh bowls is ideal for the Wanderers. I would be surprised if he doesn’t get a chance in Johannesburg.”
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