Ajinkya Rahane has called on the Indian team management to finalize a long-term No.3 batter, urging them to choose between Sai Sudharsan and Washington Sundar. He believes India’s constant chopping at the one-down slot is hurting players who need clarity and consistent backing.
India’s decision to play Washington Sundar at No.3 in the first Test against South Africa surprised many. The move came after several experiments under head coach Gautam Gambhir, with no player receiving an extended run. The Kolkata Test ended in a 30-run loss, reopening debates about unstable roles in the batting order.
Rahane highlighted that batting at No.3 demands a set of skills that differ completely from lower-middle-order roles.
“I’ll take a name. Sai Sudharsan. He did well, 87 and 39, I guess. When you bat at No.3, it requires a different skill. Batting at 6 or 7, requires a different skill. Washy is a great player, an amazing player and an amazing talent. But going to bat at No.3 is very confusing for him. He must be thinking, ‘How do I set my game?’ Washy, I believe, is a bowling all-rounder,” said Rahane while speaking to Ashwin on the latter’s YouTube show ‘Ash Ki Baat’.
Rahane explained that Sundar will need time and focused preparation if he is expected to thrive at No.3.
“If he has to bat at No.3, then he has to prepare differently, and he will need to give it more time. Batting lower down the order is a completely different skill. Situations and conditions are different. Whether it is Washy or Sai, giving security is of utmost importance,” he added.
Rahane Backs Sudharsan for a Consistent Run
Sai Sudharsan debuted earlier this year but struggled to score heavily in the Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy. His last Test innings, an 87 against the West Indies, boosted expectations for a longer run. Sudharsan is now likely to return for the Guwahati Test, especially with concerns around Shubman Gill’s availability.
Rahane insists that if Sudharsan is viewed as the future No.3, he must not be dropped after brief stints.
“If the team management is looking at Sai at No.3 for a long duration, then he should be given the long rope. Similar to Washy,” said Rahane.
He concluded by reminding that uncertainty affects careers. “A player has his career on the line. We have to play for our country, so if you want to get a player playing at No.3 for long, then giving them a long rope is important,” he added.
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