In a strategic move aimed at countering New Zealand’s strong lineup, India has incorporated Washington Sundar into their Test squad. Ryan ten Doeschate, India’s assistant coach, disclosed that the decision was largely influenced by the composition of the New Zealand team, which prominently features four left-handers. Sundar’s entry into the squad comes off the back of a stellar performance against Delhi in a Ranji Trophy match, where he impressively scored 150 runs and claimed six wickets.
As the scene shifts to Pune for the second Test, ten Doeschate emphasized the reasoning behind selecting Sundar. “We already have Axar Patel in the squad, but with the opposition fielding four left-handers, it’s crucial to have more options that can exploit their weaknesses. Washington brings the ability to turn the ball away from the left-handers, and his inclusion aligns perfectly with our strategic goals. His consistent performance in white-ball cricket and stellar Ranji Trophy play provided the ideal opportunity for his Test inclusion,” stated ten Doeschate confidently.
The decision to include Sundar is not out of desperation but rather a strategic enhancement to ensure all bases are covered, especially in adapting to Pune’s pitch conditions. Ten Doeschate reassured fans that R Ashwin, another key off-spinner, remains in fine form, with no injury concerns hampering his participation. With India trailing 0-1 in the three-match series and facing a setback after misreading Bengaluru’s pitch conditions, correcting this oversight becomes paramount.
The intent to thoroughly understand and adapt to the Pune pitch was evident, as ground staff meticulously prepared the surface under the searing sun. Ten Doeschate reiterated the team’s resolve to perfect pitch assessment this time. “We might have been taken by surprise in Bengaluru, but we are committed to ensuring our preparation and evaluation of the Pune wicket are as precise as possible,” he added.
Selection deliberations also revolve around player fitness and form, with encouraging updates on Shubman Gill’s near-full recovery. Rishabh Pant, another critical player, participated in net sessions and was seen doing wicketkeeping drills, signaling readiness for the Test. “Rishabh is recovering well,” ten Doeschate noted optimistically. “He experienced slight knee discomfort, but we expect him to be fit for the Test.
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Player form remains healthy across the board, but India faces tough decisions regarding batting order due to the impressive 150-run performance by Sarfaraz Ahmed in the previous game. In contrast, KL Rahul’s quieter outing puts him in a challenging position despite past successes. “It’s a competitive environment,” acknowledged ten Doeschate. “Sarfaraz was exceptional last time, and KL’s situation is tough. Even though he didn’t miss a ball, things didn’t go his way.”
Compounding the selection challenge is the issue of fast bowling. Although Mohammed Siraj captured two wickets in the previous Test, Akash Deep, who was not included despite performing exceptionally well in Bangladesh, waits in the wings. Ten Doeschate voiced confidence in Siraj’s abilities, dismissing any notion of poor form. “Siraj’s appearance in the second innings was a testament to his skills. It’s clear that conditions in Bengaluru weren’t conducive to his style, which normally troubles left-handers. We’ve been working on tactics like altering angles to challenge the stump more.”
Meanwhile, Akash Deep continues his practice diligently, ready to seize his chance when it comes. “After the Bengaluru Test, Akash kept honing his craft. Should team strategy in Pune require more seamers, his return could be imminent. His bowling has been top-notch,” ten Doeschate commented, emphasizing the depth and readiness of India’s fast-bowling arsenal.
With meticulous preparation and tactical adjustments, India aims to even the series in Pune, utilizing its roster of skilled players equipped to tackle the specific demands of the upcoming Test.