AUS vs IND 2024-25: Why is Shubman Gill not playing 4th Test?

At the storied Melbourne Cricket Ground, Team India took a risk by benching Shubman Gill during the fourth Test match against Australia. In his confirmation of the development at the toss, captain Rohit Sharma mentioned that India would be using Washington Sundar as an additional spinner. In order to maintain balance, the captain will shift to the head of the order, and Gill was sacrificed since the team management was worried about his recent performance in the longest format as the series nears its conclusion.

Surprisingly, the youthful player outscored seasoned hitter Virat Kohli and Rohit in 2024, scoring 866 runs at an average of 43.30 in 12 Test matches.

But Shubman Gill had to leave because KL Rahul, the series’ second-leading run scorer, had found his groove and amassed 235 runs in the final six innings.

Since the surface is supposed to work in their favour as the game goes on, the move was also motivated by the desire to play an extra spinner. According to reports, the MCG’s cracks are likely to show in the heat, which is when the spinners can leave their mark. This is one of the main reasons why Washington made a comeback and Gill was axed.

However, Australia changed their starting lineup by two players. With the awarding of his Baggy Green earlier today, young Sam Konstas is poised to make his debut for his country. He will open the game with Usman Khawaja. Nathan McSweeney was removed from the playing XI despite having a respectable series. Scott Boland will play in Josh Hazlewood’s place as the series’ dominant bowler, however, has been ruled out.

During this time, the Indian captain expressed his desire to bat first, which the hosts chose after winning the toss.

Playing XI:

Australia: Usman Khawaja, Sam Konstas, Marnus Labuschagne, Steven Smith, Travis Head, Mitchell Marsh, Alex Carey (wk), Pat Cummins (c), Mitchell Starc, Nathan Lyon, Scott Boland.