Kolkata Test: Who will bat at three for India?
What's the story
Team India is taking on South Africa in the first of a two-match Test series at Kolkata's Eden Gardens. The Temba Bavuma-led side won the toss and opted to bat first. However, fans were shocked to see Sai Sudharsan missing from India's playing XI. The decision has sparked a debate among cricket enthusiasts, with many questioning the rationale behind his omission from India's starting lineup. Notably, Sudharsan operated at three in the recent home Test series versus West Indies.
Tactical shift
Sudharsan's absence not due to injury concerns
It's important to note that Sudharsan's absence from the first Test isn't due to injury concerns, but rather a strategic move by the management. His exclusion opens up room for multiple changes in India's playing XI. The team has decided to go with four spinners - Ravindra Jadeja, Axar Patel, Kuldeep Yadav, and Washington Sundar - a first since 2012.
Strategic inclusion
Washington Sundar promoted to No. 3
Sundar has been promoted to bat at No. 3 in place of Sudharsan. This move also paves the way for Axar Patel's return to the Test side after a long gap. The decision is aimed at fitting both Dhruv Jurel and Rishabh Pant into the playing XI amid the former's recent form. Jurel had scored two consecutive unbeaten centuries in the recently concluded India A vs South Africa A series, making him hard to ignore.
Performance comparison
Sundar's superior red-ball stats
In red-ball cricket, Washington Sundar has outperformed Sai Sudharsan. While Sudharsan has played nine innings with an average of 30.33, Sundar has played 25 innings at a much higher average of 44.71. This makes Sundar a valuable addition to the team as he provides an extra bowling option while also contributing with the bat.