Ravichandran Ashwin “Deeply Concerned” About One Player After India’s Heavy Defeat In South Africa Test

India fielded four spinners in the opening Test against South Africa and even pushed Washington Sundar up to the No. 3 spot.

Former India all-rounder Ravichandran Ashwin criticised captain Shubman Gill and head coach Gautam Gambhir for dropping Sai Sudharsan from the Playing XI in the first Test against South Africa in Kolkata. India faced a shocking 30-run defeat on a difficult Eden Gardens surface, collapsing for just 93 while chasing 124. Ashwin questioned the call to leave out Sudharsan and instead pick all-rounder Washington Sundar, who was also pushed up to bat at No. 3 — a position originally meant for Sudharsan. Sundar managed scores of 29 and 31 in the two innings.

“I’m genuinely concerned for Sai Sudharsan; he’s a quality player. What must be going through his mind after being left out? I’ve always believed that selecting four spinners is excessive. Washington Sundar didn’t even bowl in the second innings. When you pick four spinners and don’t give one of them a single over, it impacts their confidence,” Ashwin said on his YouTube channel.

“He (Sundar) has the skill. But whether it was the right call, only time will tell. We can analyse and debate it after a defeat, but he needs time. I truly believe Sai Sudharsan has a bright future. If you want to build a team around a No. 3, you need a specialist batter for that role. Look at those who have historically played at No. 3 – stability is crucial. If you are choosing to back Washington Sundar in that slot, then I hope the team commits to him for a few years. The No. 3 position cannot keep changing based on conditions,” he added.