The second match of the Test series between India and New Zealand is currently being held at the Maharashtra Cricket Association Stadium in Pune. After losing the first match, India must win this crucial game to stay alive in the series. The team made several significant changes to the playing XI, one of which includes the much-talked-about return of all-rounder Washington Sundar to the Test squad after a gap of 1329 days.
With Sundar’s return, former Indian cricket legend Sunil Gavaskar has raised concerns about the reason behind his selection, questioning whether it was based on strategy or due to the team’s worries about its lower-order batting strength.
Sundar’s Test Return After Nearly 3 Years
Rohit Sharma, the Indian skipper, made a bold move by including Washington Sundar in the playing XI for this crucial encounter against New Zealand. Sundar wasn’t initially part of the squad but was brought in ahead of the second Test. His last appearance in the whites for India was back in 2021.
Sundar has replaced Kuldeep Yadav in the playing XI, and this move has sparked debate. While Sundar’s off-spin bowling and batting abilities make him a valuable asset, many are questioning whether this was the best decision, especially when playing against a side like New Zealand, which has a considerable number of left-handed batsmen.
Gavaskar Questions Sundar’s Inclusion
Speaking during commentary, Sunil Gavaskar pointed out that the inclusion of Sundar wasn’t necessarily due to his bowling skills. He believes that Sundar’s selection was made because of his batting potential, especially in the lower order. According to Gavaskar, India’s team management was more concerned about their batting depth, which led to Sundar’s inclusion over other potential choices.
Gavaskar explained, “Sundar’s selection indicates the team is concerned about its lower-order batting. He’s in the team not just for his off-spin, but because he can contribute with the bat, which might have been the priority here. While there has been much talk about New Zealand’s left-handed batsmen, I would have preferred someone like Kuldeep Yadav, who can trouble left-handers with his spin. He’s also handy with the bat, though not at the level of Sundar.”
Sundar’s Recent Form
Sundar has been in great touch in domestic cricket, which might have contributed to his recall to the national squad. In the Ranji Trophy, he played a stellar knock against Delhi, scoring a brilliant 152 runs while batting at number three. In that match, he also picked up two wickets, showcasing his all-round capabilities.
Before this match, Sundar had played 4 Tests for India, with an impressive batting average of 66.25, including three half-centuries. He has also taken 6 wickets in his Test career, making him a strong contender for an all-rounder’s role in the team.
Will Sundar Deliver in the Crucial Test?
As India fights to stay alive in the series, all eyes will be on Washington Sundar to see whether he can justify his selection with both bat and ball. While Sunil Gavaskar’s concerns about the team’s reliance on Sundar for batting are valid, Sundar’s all-round skills could prove to be the key in this do-or-die match against New Zealand.
As the match progresses, it will be interesting to see how Sundar’s return impacts the outcome and whether his inclusion proves to be a masterstroke or a missed opportunity.
