2 Indian Players handpicked and asked to focus on their fitness ahead of IND vs AUS Tests

India's dominant 280-run win against Bangladesh in the Chennai Test sent a strong message to Australia ahead of the highly anticipated Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25 later this year.

In the first Test, Ravichandran Ashwin showcased his all-around abilities with a crucial century and a six-wicket haul, while Jasprit Bumrah led the pace bowling attack with five wickets in Chennai.

On the other hand, Shubman Gill and Rishabh Pant took center stage with brilliant centuries, and Ashwin further contributed by taking six wickets to ensure the hosts' big win in the first Test to take a 1-0 lead in the ongoing two-match Test series against Bangladesh.

Ian Chappell emphasizes the fitness of Jasprit Bumrah, and Rishabh Pant as key to India’s success in Australia

After the Chennai Test, legendary Australian cricketer Ian Chappell has emphasized the significance of Pant and Bumrah in the hopes of securing a hat-trick of Test series wins in Australia later this year.

According to the former Australian captain, the visiting teams' primary focus should be to get as many players in form as possible while ensuring key players, like Bumrah and Pant, remain fit.

Ian Chappell wrote in his column for ESPNCricinfo: “India's main goal should be to get as many players into form as possible while avoiding major injuries. However, the focus must be on ensuring the fitness of Jasprit Bumrah and Rishabh Pant.”

The legendary cricketer also highlighted Pant's crucial role as a wicketkeeper in the upcoming five-match Test series in Australia, particularly in challenging conditions.

If Pant is at his best, he’s the ideal keeper for the Australia tour: Chappell

Chappell said that the right-hander would be an ideal choice for wicketkeeping on the much-anticipated Australia tour, but only if he is at his best for the upcoming Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25.

He added, “If Pant is at his best, he’s the ideal keeper for these conditions. A keeper must cover a lot of ground on both sides of the wicket. A keeper who meets these demands not only enhances the team’s fielding but also allows slip fielders to spread wider and cover more ground.”

Chappell further gave credit to the former head coach Ravi Shastri for Pant’s improved skills behind the stumps. Furthermore, the cricket pandit has insisted that the fitness of pacers Mohammed Siraj and Jasprit Bumrah will be crucial for Team India.

Chappell stresses the importance of Bumrah, Siraj for India’s hat-trick bid in Australia

The Aussie great has pointed out that Siraj, along with Bumrah, played key roles during India’s last two back-to-back Test series wins in Australia. With Jasprit Bumrah leading the bowling attack, he must stay in top shape and form throughout the much-awaited five-match Test series in Australia.

Chappell signed off by saying, “The fitness and form of both Bumrah and Mohammed Siraj—the two standout pace bowlers from the last Australian tour—are vital. Bumrah leads the attack, and it’s essential that he remain fit and in form for the bulk of the five Tests.”