The workload has already claimed Josh Hazlewood, and the lack of it has led to Ravichandran Ashwin's shock retirement.
But come December 26, all the focus will be on cricket. Both teams have had a chance to see what works and what doesn't, and now, if ever, will be the time to ring in the changes.
In that regard, Australia has already made their move. The hosts have dropped opener Nathan McSweeney and brought in exciting young talent Sam Konstas. Fast bowlers Jhye Richardson and Sean Abbott have also joined the squad, while all-rounder Beau Webster, who was added prior to the second Test in Adelaide, keeps his place.
The Konstas move stems from the fact that their top order has struggled to put pressure back on the Indians. McSweeney, Usman Khawaja, and Marnus Labuschagne have been far too passive.
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