Sai Sudharsan has been picked in the Indian Test side for the upcoming two-match series against West Indies. The 23-year-old southpaw made a strong case to keep on batting for India in the number three
spot in Test cricket after becoming the top run-scorer for India A in the two-match unofficial Test series against Australia. In the ongoing second match of the series, Sudharsan scored 75 in the first innings and was on the crease at the end of day three scoring 44*. Sai played a 50+ knock in the first unofficial Test as well, his form has led to former players advocating for him amid the upcoming home season.
In a recent discussion on his YouTube channel, former Indian all-rounder Irfan Pathan said, “Sai Sudharsan, the left-handed batsman, should get consistent opportunities now.” He further added, “In the England series, he was in and out of the side, even though he showed his talent. Now it looks like he’ll play more regularly, and he absolutely has the talent to be very, very successful.” It can be said that Irfan Pathan believes in handing Sai Sudharsan a consistent run in the team which will allow the young batter to settle into the demands of international cricket and fulfill his potential.
He’s shown promise, I believe he is up for it: Irfan Pathan says on Shubman Gill as India’s Test captain
Irfan Pathan noted that that upocming two-match series against West Indies at home will be Shubman Gill’s second as captain. He further remarked,“He’s (Shubman Gill) shown promise, and with more experience, he’ll only get better. Leading India in Test cricket is a big responsibility, and I believe he’s up for it.” Gill, who has been groomed as a potential leader for some time, took over the captaincy reins in the absence of regular skipper Rohit Sharma during a previous series. His leadership in the England series earlier this year was reportedly met with mixed reviews, but Pathan expressed confidence in the young captain’s ability to grow into the role.
Adding further strength to the leadership group is the appointment of Ravindra Jadeja as vice-captain. “Ravindra Jadeja has performed brilliantly and been a match-winner for India, especially in Test cricket,” Irfan Pathan said. Jadeja’s elevation to the vice-captaincy comes in the wake of Rishabh Pant’s unavailability due to injury, leaving a void in the team’s leadership and middle-order batting. The India versus West Indies Test series, scheduled for 2025, is expected to be a significant challenge for the hosts despite their historical dominance over the Caribbean side. India will be looking to fine-tune their lineup ahead of a packed international calendar, including the World Test Championship (WTC) 2025-27 cycle.
