In a significant strategic move, the Indian cricket team has opted to bolster its Test squad with the addition of Washington Sundar, as revealed by Ryan ten Doeschate, India’s assistant coach. Speaking ahead of the crucial second Test against New Zealand in Pune, Ten Doeschate explained that the rationale behind including Sundar was heavily influenced by the composition of the New Zealand team. The opposition lineup features four left-handed batsmen, and India’s management aims to exploit this by creating match conditions conducive to success.
Washington Sundar’s selection came on the heels of an extraordinary performance in a Ranji Trophy match where he demonstrated his all-around abilities by scoring 150 runs and claiming six wickets against Delhi. His reinforcement to the squad immediately after India’s defeat in the first Test in Bengaluru indicates the team’s sincere intention to recalibrate and find a winning formula.
When questioned about this tactical choice, Ten Doeschate elaborated: “We recognize the strong presence of left-handers in New Zealand’s XI. Our desire is to create uncertainties for them. We believe Washington can effectively turn the ball away from them. His inclusion is not just a contingency plan but a strategy we’ve been contemplating. Adding him also sends a positive signal to all players regarding the merit-based rewards for excellent performances in domestic cricket.”
In terms of team health, Ten Doeschate clarified that there are no injury worries regarding Ravichandran Ashwin, another off-spinner within the squad. His complement alongside Sundar fortifies India’s spin attack, aiming to corner the Kiwi left-handers. There’s confident assurance from the camp as they iron out the kinks revealed by the Bangalore setback.
Reflecting on the earlier defeat in the three-match series, where India trails 0-1, skipper Rohit Sharma admitted to misjudging the conditions in Bengaluru. Speaking candidly about addressing this vital aspect, Ten Doeschate assures meticulous re-evaluation of the Pune pitch. “We didn’t fully anticipate the conditions earlier, and it slightly blindsided us. Learning from Bangalore’s misjudgment, efforts are being doubled to have a thorough understanding of the pitch.”
With two days leading up to the Pune Test, speculation around team selection remains rife.
. Eyes are on the recovering Shubman Gill, who appears set for a return, and Rishabh Pant, whose fitness status is monitored closely. Observing Pant’s practice batting and wicket-keeping routines suggests optimism for his participation. Ten Doeschate commented, “Rishabh is showing improvement. His involvement will be a huge boost, considering his impact behind the stumps and with the bat.”
Moreover, while India’s coaching staff expresses satisfaction with the squad’s overall form, selection dilemmas persist, particularly given Sarfaraz Ahmed’s remarkable innings in the previous match, juxtaposed with KL Rahul’s subdued performance. Ten Doeschate remarked, “The selection will challenge us. Sarfaraz demonstrated brilliance, making a compelling case for retention. KL, despite not scoring big, didn’t miss any balls, which can happen when runs elude you. It does certainly open up competitive conversations about the lineup.”
Fast bowling selection faces a similar predicament. Mohammed Siraj’s mixed bag of results in the first Test leads to discussions over Akash Deep’s inclusion, based on his prior success in the Bangladesh series. Speaking confidently about Siraj’s prospects, Ten Doeschate commented, “There’s nothing concerning about Siraj. His form can be attributed to non-assisting conditions. His abilities remain sharp; it’s about being opportunistic with wickets. We value what Akash brings too, and his readiness is promising.”
This infusion of choice in both spin and pace departments aligns with India’s tactical strategy against New Zealand. These decisions underpin the emphasis on executing a comprehensive plan aimed at securing a series-levelling victory under potentially testing conditions in Pune.