Border-Gavaskar Trophy: Major changes expected as India set to announce squad for Australia Test series on October 28

With less than a month remaining until the first Test of the highly anticipated Border-Gavaskar Trophy, the Indian selectors are gearing up to announce the squad by the end of October. According to reports, a larger-than-usual squad may be named for the five-match tour, potentially marking the return of experienced batsman Cheteshwar Pujara.

News agency PTI has indicated that the official announcement for the India Test squad for the Australia tour could take place on October 28. Pujara last represented India in the final of the 2023 ICC World Test Championship, after which he was dropped from the team. However, selectors might reconsider his inclusion, given his impressive past performances in Australia.

Pujara was the standout performer during the 2018-19 tour, finishing as the leading run-scorer with a remarkable 521 runs. In the subsequent series, he contributed significantly with 271 runs, helping India recover from an initial defeat to clinch the series 2-1. His ability to absorb pressure and wear down opposition bowlers could prove crucial for India in the challenging Australian conditions.

In addition to Pujara, reports suggest that fast-bowling allrounder Shardul Thakur could be considered for selection despite his recent form. Thakur made a notable impact on the previous tour when several Indian players were sidelined due to injuries.

Allrounder Nitish Reddy is also in contention for a spot after impressing in a recent three-match T20I series against Bangladesh. Reddy has been selected for the India A squad, which will shadow the main squad during the tour of Australia.

A significant concern for the Indian camp is pacer Mohammed Shami, who recently expressed that he is pain-free and eager to play a Ranji Trophy match to assess his fitness before heading to Australia. Reports indicate that Shami may miss the initial matches of the tour, raising questions about the team's bowling lineup.

Currently, the Indian team is engaged in a three-match Test series against New Zealand at home, trailing 0-1 after a disappointing loss in the opening match in Bengaluru