Daijiworld Media Network – New Delhi
New Delhi, Nov 20: As India gears up for the second Test in Guwahati, the team management faces a decisive call that could shape the balance of the batting order as well as the spin-bowling depth. Sai Sudharsan, who has caught the attention of head coach Gautam Gambhir with his improving gameplay against spin, is being actively considered for the coveted No. 3 position. But the move raises an immediate question — what happens to Washington Sundar, who impressed many with his technique and temperament in the first Test at Eden Gardens?
Sudharsan spent considerable time at the nets on Tuesday, practicing against spin without his back pad — a technique Gambhir is reportedly using to break the youngster’s habit of moving onto the back foot too early. On turning tracks against the likes of Keshav Maharaj and Simon Harmer, the coach believes such tendencies can prove costly. His focused instructions to Sai suggest that the left-hander is very much in contention for a place in Saturday’s playing XI.
But Washington Sundar has already made a strong case for himself. On a testing surface in Kolkata, the tall southpaw held firm, facing 82 and 92 deliveries in two innings and scoring 29 and 31 with a composed, front-foot-dominant approach. Gambhir publicly praised Sundar after the match, acknowledging not only his technique but also the calmness he displayed against quality spin.
Former India opener and noted coach WV Raman feels Sundar’s technique is still evolving but remains among the best in the current Indian top order. Raman believes the youngster often stretches into a very long stride, risking trouble on sharp turners, but adds that his understanding of spin is solid. He strongly supports giving Sundar a stable slot higher up the order, saying that continuity will unlock his batting potential.
The dilemma deepens when considering India’s recent experiments with the No. 3 position. With Shubman Gill moving down to No. 4 following Virat Kohli’s retirement, Sai Sudharsan initially stepped into the spot but endured a brief dip in form, allowing Karun Nair a short run during the England series. Sai bounced back well against the West Indies in New Delhi, scoring 87 and 39, signalling his readiness for responsibility again.
Raman acknowledges Sudharsan’s progress, noting that the Tamil Nadu batter has significantly improved his front-foot game. He concedes that the decision between Sai and Sundar will not be an easy one for the team management, given Sundar’s gritty performance in Kolkata.
Another lingering concern is whether India, in its eagerness to mould Sundar into a top-order batter, might inadvertently compromise his bowling. In the Kolkata Test, the off-spinner bowled just a solitary over — a puzzling underutilisation for a player known for his discipline and accuracy with the ball. Raman believes Sundar is far more than a part-time option and must be recognised as a legitimate off-spinner who also offers valuable runs.
As India seeks to level the series, the upcoming selection will not merely determine the No. 3 batter but also signal the team’s long-term vision for two of its most promising young cricketers. Whether the management opts for Sudharsan’s renewed strokeplay or Sundar’s burgeoning all-round capabilities, Saturday’s XI in Guwahati will offer crucial answers.