Former Australia cricketer Jason Gillespie feels that Washington Sundar should be elevated up the batting order after his knock of 49* took India over the finish line in 3rd T20I. The left-hand batter came into bat at No.6 after Axar Patel and ended up smacking three boundaries and four sixes in what was a superb inning. He played a key role in the Men in Blue's 5-wicket victory that saw them level the five-match series at 1-1.
Gillespie wants Sundar to bat over Axar
Showering praise on Sundar, Gillespie remarked that the 26-year-old should be made to bat above Axar Patel in the order. He further remarked that the latter is more suited to bat in subcontinental conditions and that is why shouldn't be so high up the batting order.
"I don't know why he is batting below Axar Patel. That 49* was absolutely superb. He wasn't intimidated by the Australian seamers and just looked to take it on. They've got a nice batting lineup. I just felt Axar Patel is one or two spots too high in that order. He's a good player, no doubt. But he is probably more suited to subcontinent conditions," Gillespie said on the fast bowling cartel YouTube channel.
ALSO READ: Australia announce 15-member squad for 1st Ashes Test, drop young opener for uncapped player
Gillespie also recalled the time that he had spent with Sundar in Chennai and said that the all-rounder has a great attitude and backs himself whenever he is given the opportunity.
"I've spent a little bit of time with Washington Sundar in Chennai when I've been coaching. He has just got a great attitude. He just goes and backs himself when he gets the opportunity," Gillespie stated.
ALSO READ: Watch: World Cup-winners Harmanpreet-led India arrives in New Delhi for meeting with PM Modi
Though Sundar wasn't handed the ball during the 3rd T20I in Hobart, he was sent ahead of power-hitter Shivam Dube and this move proved to be a game-changer. Sundar made the most out of the opportunity and played a memorable inning to ensure that the visitors take home the win. He will now be looking to maintain this form in the 4th T20I that is set to be played on November 6 at the Carrara Oval in Queensland.