Veteran Keeper Raises Concerns About All-rounder's Role Shift
Indian wicket-keeper batsman Dinesh Karthik has expressed significant concerns about Team India's decision to promote Washington Sundar to the number three batting position in the recent Test match against South Africa at Eden Gardens. While Sundar delivered commendable performances with the bat during India's 30-run defeat, Karthik believes this strategic move could have long-term consequences for the player's primary skill as a bowler.
The Batting-Bowling Practice Dilemma
Karthik emphasized that by positioning Sundar so high in the batting order, the team management is sending a clear message that they expect substantial runs from him. This shift in focus will inevitably force the Tamil Nadu all-rounder to dedicate more practice hours to batting, potentially at the expense of his bowling development. The veteran player explained that it's physically challenging to maintain excellence in both disciplines simultaneously, as extensive batting practice often reduces the time and energy available for bowling workouts.
On a deteriorating Kolkata pitch that challenged most batsmen, Washington Sundar stood out with his composed approach. He replaced his state teammate Sai Sudharsan in the batting order as India opted for a four-spinner strategy on the turning track. Despite the team's loss, Sundar's application in his unfamiliar role drew praise from various quarters, including South African pace legend Shaun Pollock.
Expert Opinions Divided on Strategic Move
While Karthik sounded the alarm about potential bowling repercussions, Shaun Pollock offered a different perspective. The former Proteas captain commended Sundar's temperament and suggested the young all-rounder deserves an extended run in the position. Pollock recommended giving Sundar four to five more Test matches at number three to properly assess his capabilities before considering any changes.
The cricket legend also noted that he always felt Sundar was underutilized in previous matches and believed the player would further refine his batting approach with more experience in the top order. This contrasting viewpoint highlights the ongoing debate about how best to develop and utilize all-round talents in modern cricket.
As Team India reflects on their Eden Gardens defeat and plans for future matches, the management faces a crucial decision regarding Washington Sundar's optimal position in the lineup. The balance between maximizing his batting potential and preserving his bowling effectiveness remains a challenging puzzle that could significantly impact both the player's career trajectory and team composition in upcoming series.
