Ahead of Ranchi’s debut as a venue for cricket’s longest format, everyone is eager to know the behavior of the pitch. Traditionally Ranchi has dished out slow tracks, both for first-class matches as well as for internationals, and a slow turner is expected.
If we look at the history, Spinners have picked up as many as 24 wickets in just 4 ODIs played at the JSCA stadium.
So, obviously, there is a possibilty that both the teams could opt for an extra spinner in their playing XI. With Ashwin and Jadeja in top form for team india, the addition of Jayant could make life even more difficult for the Australians, who are definitely under pressure to overcome from their bengaluru debacle.
For the visitors too, the Ranchi surface could lead to changes in the playing XI. The big question though is whether young leg-spinner Mitchell Swepson will get a go in place of Mitchell Marsh, who too has gone back home due to injury. The Indians were completely at sea against Steve O’Keefe’s left-arm spin in the first Test and it was off-spinner Nathan Lyon who broke India’s back in Bengaluru. With Marsh not being utilised as a bowler in both the Tests and failing to contribute with the bat either, the Aussies could very well use his slot to get in a youngster who will bolster their spin attack in friendly conditions.
