India’s hopes in the ICC World Test Championship Final may rest on the shoulders of their batting stalwarts, but Ricky Ponting believes that one of their young guns also has the potential to shine. Ponting backs Cheteshwar Pujara to play a crucial role in the final, citing his impressive record against Australia. Pujara has scored the most Test runs and centuries against Australia compared to any other team. In 24 Tests against them, he has amassed 2033 runs and five centuries. Ponting believes that Pujara’s past performances against Australia, especially in Australia where the conditions are similar to the WTC Final venue, make him a significant threat. The Australian team is aware of the challenge posed by Pujara and will look to dismiss him early.
Apart from Pujara, Ponting also highlights the importance of Virat Kohli in India’s chances. Kohli recently returned to form with a confident 186 in the fourth Test against Australia in March. Ponting acknowledges that the Australian team will certainly be discussing Kohli as a key player. He adds that Kohli has expressed feeling close to his best form again, which serves as a warning to the Australians. Ponting also mentions Rohit Sharma as a player who can influence the outcome of the WTC Final.
Ponting further supports the inclusion of Shubman Gill in the Indian team. Gill impressed during the recent Border-Gavaskar Trophy with a fine century and has shown promise since his Test debut in 2020. With KL Rahul ruled out due to injury, Gill has an opportunity to establish himself as a consistent opener. Ponting describes Gill as a talented and confident young player with a swagger and class. He highlights Gill’s front foot pull shot as a valuable asset against the Australian bowling attack.
Regarding India’s bowling, Ponting believes that Mohammed Shami will have to step up and elevate his game in the absence of Jasprit Bumrah, who is dealing with injury concerns. Ponting acknowledges Shami’s skill and the respect he commands from Australian batsmen. He emphasizes that Shami’s performance will be crucial for India to match Australia’s acclaimed bowling attack in the final.
In summary, Ponting identifies Pujara, Kohli, Gill, and Shami as key players who can significantly impact India’s chances in the ICC World Test Championship Final.
