Former India Test vice-captain Ajinkya Rahane has voiced strong concerns over the team management's decision to promote bowling all-rounder Washington Sundar to the crucial number three batting position during the first Test against South Africa in Kolkata. Rahane believes the move could be disorienting for the player and sends mixed signals to specialist batter Sai Sudharsan.
The Batting Order Conundrum Explained
The selection raised eyebrows during the low-scoring affair at Eden Gardens. While Sundar showed resilience, scoring 29 and 31 in his two innings and consuming valuable deliveries with a solid defence, his placement at one-down was a tactical surprise. Rahane, speaking on his show 'Ash ki Baat', emphasized the psychological challenge for a player accustomed to a different role.
"It's very tough as a batter in Test cricket when you know your number is not set," Rahane stated. "You play at three and then suddenly you are out and the guy who bats at six is coming at three. Those who have done well at three and four have gotten that spot consistently for a long time before."
Rahane's Warning on Player Security
Rahane did not mince words about the potential fallout from such decisions, highlighting the impact on both Sundar and Sudharsan. Sai Sudharsan had previously batted at number three against the West Indies, making his sudden exclusion from that spot puzzling. Rahane argued that this lack of clarity can hinder a player's ability to perform freely.
"Whoever is playing at three, be it Washi or Sai, it is important to get security at that spot. Only then can you play with freedom," he explained. "Otherwise, you cannot play your game." He urged the team management to provide a 'long rope' to whichever player they envision in that role, allowing them to prepare mentally and technically.
The All-Rounder's Dilemma
Rahane also pointed to a fundamental identity crisis that such a promotion could create for Sundar, whom he categorizes as a "bowling all-rounder." Drawing from his own experience, Rahane suggested that being asked to focus heavily on batting could come at the cost of Sundar's primary skill—his bowling.
"If he has to bat at three, then bowling will definitely fall into second gear," Rahane cautioned. He stressed the importance of clear communication from the team management to the player who is being left out, noting that "a player's career is at stake." The comments have sparked a fresh debate on team composition and the value of defined roles in the longest format of the game.
