Ravi Shastri, the former head coach of India, has expressed his gratitude for Washington Sundar. Shastri described Sundar as the ideal candidates to be India’s next long-term all-round player ahead of the coming Test series between India and England. His words have caused debate among both experts and fans.
It has been predicted that the Test series between England and India will be an intense contest. There is a lot of attention to team selection because both teams have strong squads. India has become known for having strong batters and excellent spinners. But the team has had trouble finding an effective spin-bowling all-rounder in recent years, in particular while playing abroad.
A Beneficial Beginning
Washington In 2021, Sundar made his Test debut at the Gabba against Australia. Due to the injuries he sustained, he was brought in as an emergency replacement. Everyone got impressed by Sundar in spite of the pressure. In his debut, he took critical wickets, including Steve Smith, and scored a calm 62. Sundar was a key individual in India’s historic Test victory.
Sundar has been in and out of the squad ever since. His chances were limited by team combinations and injuries. However, he always delivered when given the chance. He has demonstrated excellent maturity in domestic cricket, T20s, and ODIs.
Shastri’s Trust in Sundar
“Washington Sundar is a quality player,” Ravi Shastri mentioned during a segment on a cricket show. He can give you 15 to 20 overs in a day and has the technique to bat in the top six. In Test cricket, that is gold.
Shastri’s trust results from his close observation of Sundar during his coaching career. He thinks Sundar is a fantastic fit for longer formats because of his consisting demeanour and adaptability
In certain situations, particularly when playing away from home, India has missed players like Ravindra Jadeja or Hardik Pandya. While Jadeja has done well, there are still moments when his fitness is a worry. Hardik has not shown much interest in playing Test cricket regularly.
The Completely Round Void
India’s Test team has enjoyed a lot of success in recent years. Its fast-bowling and spin-bowling all-rounder is still insufficient, though. In South Africa, Australia, and England, India usually has difficulties finding the right team balance. They have to decide between using an extra batter or a bowler. In this case, an all-rounder becomes crucial.
Sundar’s accurate off-spin and dependable batting can compensate for his lack of express pace. His trust, patience, and ability to play pace and spin make him an excellent lower-order hitter. He may change games with a ball or a bat.
Fitness and Domestic Form
Sundar performed well in the Ranji Trophy and other red-ball matches during the previous domestic season. He improved his level of fitness and avoided getting hurt. Anyone hoping for a lengthy Test career should focus on these areas.
Selectors were also impressed by his recent county cricket performances. He gained patience, a crucial trait in Test cricket, and was able to adapt to swinging conditions while playing in England.
Competition within the squad
Other spin options to stay India include Ravichandran Ashwin and Axar Patel. Still, pitch conditions are typically used to select both. Balance is the thing that Sundar has to offer. Despite not being the top spinner, he can still provide valuable runs at No. 6 or 7 while supporting the main bowlers.
He has the potential to be a game-changer if India uses him in the available series, particularly on pitches that facilitate seaming and swing. In times of trouble, India needs Sundar’s ability to remain created.
What’s Up Next
India’s bench strength will be put to the test during the five-match series against England. A counterattack using both the ball and the bat is necessary to counter England’s aggressive Bazball strategy. That aggressive style can be slowed down by Sundar’s self-control and discipline. He can create partnerships and exhaust bowlers with the bat.
It’s unclear if the selectors will include him in the starting line-up However, Sundar’s case is stronger than ever thanks to Shastri’s support and recent performances.
Disclaimer
This article is based on information that is readily available to the public, professional judgements, and recent remarks made by well-known cricket figures. The team management and selectors have the authority to alter player roles, team selections, and match results. No cricket board or organization’s official position is reflected in the opinions expressed.
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