Due to visa complications, Jaydev Unadkat will not be able to make it to Chattogram in time for the first Test against Bangladesh, which begins on Wednesday. PTI
Jaydev Unadkat, a fast bowler for India, has yet to arrive in Chattogram due to visa issues and will therefore miss the first Test, which begins on Wednesday. BCCI sources say that 31-year-old Unadkat’s visa paperwork is still being processed. According to the source, “Unadkat will not arrive here before the commencement of the first Test.” Unfortunately, even if his visa problems are resolved, he will not arrive until after the Test has begun.
Meanwhile, KL Rahul’s tactical acumen and batting power will be put to the test when a weakened Indian squad faces a tough Bangladesh in the high-stakes two-match series, the outcome of which will affect India’s prospects of qualifying for the World Test Championship final. Currently, India is ranked #4 in the WTC, behind the likes of Australia, South Africa, and Sri Lanka. Without a doubt, the only way to make it to the June final is to sweep both Tests against Bangladesh and then all four at home against Pat Cummins’ Australia.
The journey begins at Zahoor Ahmed Stadium, which is known for being a batting-friendly venue but also providing a bit of turn in the latter stages of a game.
As Bangladesh has yet to beat India in a Test match, the visitors will open as heavy favorites. However, the absence of Rohit Sharma, Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Shami, and Ravindra Jadeja could be detrimental to the Indian team.
If Jadeja isn’t playing, the Indian side will always be at a disadvantage when batting on these surfaces, especially in the third or fourth innings.
The Jadeja-Ashwin pairing on sub-continental tracks, at least against weaker Test nations, could be devastating, but Axar Patel has put in the work as the team’s backup left-arm spinner for the past two years.
Depending on availability, as many as ten Indian players may choose to play for themselves in the playing XI, with the fifth specialist bowler being the most crucial decision for captain KL Rahul and head coach Dravid to make.
It remains to be seen whether India will play wrist-spinner Kuldeep Yadav or slow left-arm orthodox Saurabh Kumar as their third-choice specialist spinner.
