India’s team selection for the Adelaide pink-ball Test against Australia has sparked discussions, with senior spinners Ravichandran Ashwin and Ravindra Jadeja reportedly set to remain on the bench. According to a report by The Times of India, Washington Sundar is expected to retain his spot in the playing XI for the second Test of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy.
Team Management Sticks with Sundar
Despite criticism following his inclusion in the Perth Test ahead of the experienced duo, the Indian team management appears firm on continuing with Sundar. A source quoted by The Times of India claimed there is a “90% chance” Sundar will feature in the Adelaide match.
In the first Test, which India won convincingly by 295 runs, Sundar managed figures of 0-1 and 2-48 with the ball. He also contributed a useful 42 runs during a pink-ball practice game against the Australian Prime Minister’s XI, alongside picking up a wicket for 38 runs.
Controversy Surrounding Ashwin and Jadeja’s Exclusion
The decision to leave out Ashwin and Jadeja, who together boast a staggering 855 Test wickets, has drawn criticism from fans and cricket experts alike. Former Indian captain Sunil Gavaskar voiced his disapproval during commentary for the Perth Test.
“Surprised that Ashwin and Jadeja are not playing. They have nearly 900 wickets between them, and they are skilled bowlers who perform in all conditions, not just in the subcontinent,” Gavaskar remarked. “Even if they don’t get wickets, their ability to control the scoring with their clever bowling would be invaluable on Australian pitches with large boundaries.”
Sundar’s Recent Form and Return to Test Cricket
Washington Sundar’s selection marks a significant comeback to the Test arena. The 25-year-old off-spinner, who returned to India’s Test XI during the recent New Zealand series, claimed 11 wickets in the Pune Test. He has played seven Tests so far, taking 24 wickets and scoring 387 runs, including a memorable 96 not out against England in Ahmedabad.
While his inclusion over seasoned campaigners Ashwin and Jadeja has been questioned, Sundar’s ability to contribute with both bat and ball seems to have earned him the team management’s trust.
What to Expect in Adelaide
The second Test at the Adelaide Oval will be a pink-ball affair, and India will aim to extend their lead in the series. However, the decision to stick with Sundar over the experienced Ashwin and Jadeja is likely to remain a talking point, especially if the gamble doesn’t pay off on the field.
