The ODI series saw senior batters Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli return to form with a string of centuries and half-centuries, underlining India’s continued dominance in the format. Bavuma pointed out the stark difference in India’s strength when those senior players were unavailable in Tests.
The decision means experienced opener Usman Khawaja remains on the sidelines as he continues his recovery from a back concern, while back-up batter Josh Inglis retains his place in the side and will bat at No. 7.
Despite speculation over whether Jurel would retain his spot following Pant’s return from a fractured right foot, his consistency with the bat has ensured his place in the side.
The 28-year-old stumper had missed India's previous Test series against West Indies as he was recovering from the foot fracture he suffered during the fourth Test against England in Manchester in July.
Even as they were preparing for their two-match Test series against Bangladesh, which will kick off the new cycle of the World Test Championship, Sri Lanka captain Dhananjaya de Silva was keenly following the WTC 2023/25 final between Australia and South Africa at the Lord's in London.
In India's three-wicket nail-biting victory over Bangladesh at Dhaka on Sunday, Ravichandran Ashwin was solid in defence and brought out a slew of boundaries at the end to be 42 not out in successfully taking the visitors over the line.
I tried my best and it did not work. But I always look forward and see what I can do better next time," Rahul said. Reflecting on the Bangladesh tour, the stand-in Test skipper said, "Losing the ODI series was not in our plans.
India defeated Bangladesh by three wickets in a thrilling contest in the second test to seal the series 2-0 here at the Shere Bangla National Stadium, Dhaka.
India still needs 44 more points to make sure that they are beyond the margin of 54.76 per cent. The men in blue still have six Tests to play and they need to win at least 3 and draw 2 of them.
Lord's was also initially designated as the site for the inaugural World Test Championship (2019-2021), before being relocated to Southampton.
