The Indian cricket team will probably make several changes to its starting lineup for the second Test against England. Sai Sudharsan, who played his first Test in the previous match, is likely to be dropped.
Sources say the team’s leaders want more all-around players. Sudharsan didn’t make the most of his chance in the first game. This change might be criticized since Sudharsan has only played in one game, which was his first.
The Indian Express reports that Washington Sundar, a spin-bowling all-rounder admired by coach Gautam Gambhir, will likely replace Sudharsan. The reported reason for considering this change isn’t Sudharsan’s performance, but rather the team’s overall balance.
If Sudharsan is removed, Karun Nair, who is returning to the team, will probably move to the No. 3 spot, while captain Shubman Gill will stay at No. 4.
There were rumors of Sudharsan having a shoulder injury, but he practiced hard before the second Test, dismissing those rumors.
Two other expected changes are Nitish Reddy replacing Shardul Thakur and Akash Deep replacing Jasprit Bumrah. Kuldeep Yadav, a specialist spinner, will probably remain on the bench.
If the fast bowlers aren’t creating enough chances, we think a second spinner might create a run on these wickets until the second new ball comes, captain Shubman Gill said in a Tuesday press conference. If the wicket is similar to the last match, a second spinner wouldn’t be a bad idea.