All-rounder Washington Sundar was a surprise addition to India’s Test squad hours after the eight-wicket defeat to New Zealand in the Bengaluru Test. Sundar had scored 152 batting at no.3 for Tamil Nadu against Delhi in the Ranji Trophy 2024-25 clash. The all-rounder who has struggled with injuries in recent years made a comeback to the squad after three years. His inclusion gave rise to speculations whether it is to bolster the middle order or to make a change in the spin department. On the eve of the second Test at Maharashtra Cricekt Association Stadium, Pune, head coach Gautam Gambhir revealed that the decision was taken keeping the number of left-handed batters in the opposition.
"With New Zealand having so many left handers, we wanted someone who can take the ball away from them. We haven't decided on the playing XI but he's a good option to have," Gambhir said in the pre-match press conference.
Sundar has a good record with bat in Test cricket. The left-handed batter has scored 265 runs from six innings at an average of 66.25 including three half-centuries. On the other hand, the right-arm off-spinner has claimed just six wickets at an average of 49.83 and strike rate of 87.6.
Gambhir on players’ workload and playing XI
While Gambhir confirmed that Rishabh Pant and Shubman Gill are fit for the second Test, he is still undecided on the playing XI. The 43-year-old defended an underfire KL Rahul and reminded everyone of his decent knock of 68 against Bangladesh in the Kanpur Test.
Gambhir made it clear that he does not want the team to play for draws as they are boring considering the advent of T20 cricket. In addition, he opened on the workload of pacers and said that the players will have ample time to cool off between the ongoing Test series against New Zealand and the Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25 on Australian soil starting next month.
"Once this series is over, we have 10-12 days and that's good enough rest. Of course we will evaluate after this game. Keeping the pacers fresh is important," the former Indian opener said.
