Washington Sundar, coming at number three in the first Test in Kolkata, raised a few eyebrows. Although if the scores in the Test match by other batters were taken into consideration in a low-scoring affair, Sundar did manage to put on solid cameos in both innings (29 and 31), chewing up deliveries. He was solid in defence, and from time to time, he did manage to unleash a few attacking shots. But Indian cricketer Ajinkya Rahane said that it is not easy for a number six batter to come into number three, and also questioned what messaging will this give to Sai Sudharsan.
“It’s very tough as a batter in Test cricket when you know your number is not set. You play at three and then suddenly you are out and the guy who bats at six is coming at three. Those who have done well at three and four have gotten that spot consistently for a long time before. You also send such signals. Sai Sudharsan did well at three against the West Indies. Sundar is a good batter. But coming at three and batting will be confusing for him. I believe he is a bowling all-rounder still,” Rahane said on ‘Ash ki Baat’.
“There was a time in my career where my batting average was above 40. Many suggested me that I should bat up the order. But I took the decision that I want to do bowling and then batting. I am a bowler first as I came in the team that way. So I did not give much time to my batting. As you go deep in your career, you need to give more time to bowling. This is very confusing for someone like Washi. If he has to bat at three, then bowling will definitely fall into second gear,” he said.
“Whoever is playing at three, be it Washi or Sai, it is important to get security at that spot. Only then can you play with freedom. Otherwise, you cannot play your game. If the team management is looking at Sai at three, give him a long rope. Or if they are looking at Washi there, then give him a long rope so he can prepare. Even a player’s career is at stake. It is also important to communicate with the player sitting out then,” Rahane said.
