Gautam Gambhir's last-minute stunner in Perth sparks speculation of playing XI switch after India star overcomes injury scare

Reports leading up to the opening Test match of the Border-Gavaskar series in Perth indicate that India may only include Ravichandran Ashwin as their sole spin all-rounder in the playing XI, opting for four fast-bowling options instead. Additionally, it is expected that all-rounder Nitish Kumar Reddy will make his debut in the match. However, speculation suggests that head coach Gautam Gambhir may have a surprise up his sleeve after witnessing a powerful performance during the team's final net session in Perth. It is possible that Gambhir could introduce a last-minute game-changer to catch Australia off guard.

India's stand-in captain, Jasprit Bumrah, revealed on Thursday that the team has confirmed its XI for the Test series opener in Perth. And Ashwin is reportedly set to be the lone spinner in the line-up, the accuracy of which could only be clear on Friday. But a report in Fox Cricket revealed that India's net session certainly dropped a hint about Ravindra Jadeja's inclusion, although it did not specify whether in place of Ashwin or alongside him.

The 35-year-old, who has enjoyed success against Australia, walked to the Perth nets with a point to prove. However, early on in his batting session, he was struck on the midriff, and he sunk to the ground and let out a cry of pain. The 77-Test-old veteran, however, regained composure after a while and batted through the entirety of the net session.

What hinted towards his potential inclusion in the Indian playing XI was that he was the last player to leave the nets on Thursday, and was spotted having log chats with head coach Gambhir. He was even all smiles at the end of the training session as the two made their way to the dressing room.

The all-rounder has played only four Test matches in Australia, across the last two series - the 2018/19 and the 2020/21 - scoring 175 runs, with two fifties, and picking 14 wickets at 21.78.

Although fans would have to wait until Friday morning to find out Jadeja's fate, but the Australians certainly prepared themselves for the battle as they were spotted facing left-arm spinners during their training sessions in Perth.