India will battle against England in the third test, starting from today (February 15) in Rajkot. The five-match series is currently leveled 1-1 after Rohit Sharma-led side bounced back in style to register a dominant win in the second test. In the absence of veterans Virat Kohli and KL Rahul, India could go with two debutants in the playing XI, run machine in domestic cricket Sarfaraz Khan and hard-hitting wicketkeeper-batter Dhruv Juel.

The opening pair of team India is very much set as the skipper Rohit and young Yashasvi Jaiswal give a solid start. Despite failing to register a single half-century in the first two matches, Rohit is still a big threat to the opposition. On the other hand, 22-year-old Jaiswal, who is in red-hot form, is expected to score big. Shubman Gill will bat at No.3 spot. The right-handed batter, who scored a brilliant ton in the second test, will look to continue batting with the same tempo.

Shreyas Iyer’s exclusion has cemented Rajat Patidar’s place in the playing XI. Patidar, who scored just 32 in his debut match, has to prove himself to get selected regularly in the squad. Axar Patel will be an important element of India’s lineup because he always strengthens both the batting and bowling attack. Ravindra Jadeja’s return after an injury will be a big boost for India.

Then comes Ravichandran Ashwin and this test will be a special one for the senior spinner as he is on the cusp of completing his 500 wickets in the longest format of the game. Jasprit Bumrah will spearhead the pace attack and will be accompanied by Mohammed Siraj. Siraj, who went wicketless in the first test, is expected to give a better performance in the third test.