Steve Smith led the Australian team in the absence of regular captain Pat Cummins and continued to lead the side in the Fourth Test. Meanwhile, India made one change in the XI as Mohammed Shami returned to the side in place of Mohammed Siraj. There was speculation of further changes to the XI; Especially bringing in an extra batsman in place of Axar Patel.

Chappell said during a pre-match show on ESPNCricinfo –

“I see him playing as a batsman. Don’t worry about him being underbowled, he hasn’t bowled really well. He really hasn’t deserved any more bowling. He’s got a very good record at this ground, and maybe, that will give him a lot of confidence.”

Chappell further said – “But he [ Axar ] is in the team to get some wickets, so he’s got to start bowling better than he has.”

However, the team management kept their faith in Axar for the Ahmedabad Test and former Australia captain Ian Chappell, while not overly surprised by the decision, insisted that Axar needs to make a better move when it comes to bowling.

In comparison of Axar, Jadeja bowled 32 overs in the first innings –

Axar, who is playing as a third spinner in the side, has bowled 39 overs across three Tests in the series so far. In comparison, Ravindra Jadeja bowled 32 overs in the first innings of the third Test.

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