In all likelihood, the spinning duo of R Ashwin and Ravindra Jadeja might not get a Test match in the ongoing IND vs AUS series. For starters, Washington Sundar has been exceptionally good, plus on current bowling and batting form, he gets the nod. At least, so feels ex-Indian selector Devang Gandhi.
End of Road for Ravindra Jadeja, R Ashwin?
Speaking to PTI, Gandhi said, “I do feel that the current form has been taken into consideration. The Indian team management wanted to go in with a team that had confidence and did not exactly look at the past records. Washy bowled well against New Zealand and is a reliable lower middle-order batter. So, it does make sense.”
In fact, it could be a signal to Ashwin, who hasn’t played a SENA Test since January 2022. There is no doubt he’s still one of the best, but then Washington Sundar has already shown, that the veteran is replaceable. “In Australian conditions, you want a restrictive option. This is not to say that Washy can’t be attacking but India’s bowling game plan will revolve around Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Siraj and Harshit Rana. If Mohammed Shami is included at later stages then he too. So a spinner’s job will be to give respite to these speed merchants and bowl one line,” Gandhi said.
Washington Sundar, the Better Batter
“Also, you need to be a steady batter. He did well in Brisbane last series and also looked good in Perth during the second essay. He batted well in Canberra. He is going to be the first choice.” Plus, for now Washington is the best batter out of the three spinners in the squad.
“If the two lead spinners between them have taken just 1 five-for in 10 years, that’s a problem. And when it comes to batting, Washy has a sounder technique compared to the duo.”
