Former India spinner R Ashwin has thrown his support behind Sai Sudharsan, urging that the youngster be given another chance in the second Test of the two-match series against the West Indies, starting Friday, October 10, at the Arun Jaitley Stadium in Delhi. India dominated the first Test in Ahmedabad with an innings-and-140-run victory, but Sudharsan failed to make an impact, managing only seven runs off 19 balls.
Speaking on his YouTube channel on Thursday, October 9, Ashwin said he hopes the left-hander gets among the runs and backed the idea of sticking with the same playing XI. He also pointed out that Devdutt Padikkal is waiting closely behind Sudharsan for an opportunity. The 39-year-old added:
“So, I really hope he capitalizes on that innings in Delhi. He is young, very motivated, high-quality player. I really hope he gets runs in this game. Because otherwise, with the competition that is there in the Indian Test side, I think he could find it a little uphill after this. For that reason, I think this Test match is very, very important. I really hope he plays this Test match. I think they should give him another go.”
“The team that won, should keep the same team. I think there is a lot of discussion on Sai Sudarsan. But I really hope the kid gets another go. He has a lot of ability. He has batted well in tough conditions in England too. So, I hope they give him a go. Because Devdutt Padikkal is breathing very strongly under his neck,” he added.
R Ashwin Backs Sudharsan, Calls WI Series His Best Chance To Secure His Spot
Ravichandran Ashwin went on to praise Sudharsan’s calm mindset, though he admitted that he doesn’t have complete insight into the setup or mindset the 23-year-old is currently operating in. He stated:
“I think Sai Sudharsan is temperamentally very sound. But I have no idea how he is treating him inside. What sort of bubble he is in and all that, I am not very sure. But for Sai Sudarshan, to cement his place, you won’t get a better series than this.”
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