As India prepares for the highly anticipated pink-ball Test against Australia in Adelaide, the team faces multiple selection dilemmas, particularly concerning which spinner to include in the playing XI. During the Border-Gavaskar Trophy opener, India surprised many by opting for Washington Sundar over seasoned spinners Ravichandran Ashwin and Ravindra Jadeja. This decision, met with criticism from various cricket experts, now seems poised to continue as India gears up for the second Test of the series.
According to a report in the Times of India, Sundar, the Tamil Nadu off-spinner, is all set to be retained in the squad for the second Test. Despite the impressive credentials of Ashwin and Jadeja, who together boast a combined tally of 855 Test wickets, the team management is reportedly backing Sundar for the Adelaide Test, which will take place at the iconic Adelaide Oval.
The report cited a source close to the Indian team, revealing that there is a 90% chance Sundar will be selected to play in the upcoming match. Sundar had a mixed performance during the Perth Test, where India secured a dominant 295-run victory. He bowled 0-1 in his first spell and later returned with figures of 2-48.
In the lead-up to the Adelaide Test, Sundar showcased some form during India’s pink-ball practice match against Australia Prime Minister’s XI at the Manuka Oval in Canberra. He scored a solid 42 runs and also bowled 1-38, further solidifying his chances of featuring in the second Test.
While the exclusion of Ashwin and Jadeja is controversial, the team management’s faith in Sundar appears unwavering, with both senior spinners likely to warm the bench for the Adelaide Test. Sundar’s inclusion is seen as a bold move by the Indian team, as both Ashwin and Jadeja have been key figures in India’s recent Test success.
The decision highlights the growing confidence in Sundar’s abilities, even though the competition for the spinner’s spot remains fierce. As India looks to build on their strong start in the series, all eyes will be on the Adelaide Test, where the spin department will play a crucial role in their quest for victory.
