Ajit Agarkar clarified that Sai Sudharsan was not picked for the Indian Test squad based on his IPL performance

Chief selector Ajit Agarkar explained that Sudharsan’s inclusion was predicated on his continuous performance across formats and conditions, not merely his IPL heroics, even though the left-handed batter is currently in IPL 2025 in magnificent form. After Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma retired, the Indian Test team is presently going through a transitional period.

It is admirable how quickly young B Sai Sudharsan has become well-known in the Indian cricket scene. The All India Men’s Senior Selection Committee revealed the team for the forthcoming five-match series against England on Saturday, and the 23-year-old, who has already worn the Indian jersey in ODIs and T20Is, was given his first Test call-up.

Doors have opened for a number of rising stars as a result of their individual departures. Sudharsan is being prepared to join the team’s next generation now that Shubman Gill has been named the new red-ball captain. He was a strong candidate for a Test slot because of his performances in domestic cricket, India ‘A’ matches, and a county stint with Surrey.

Following the squad announcement, Ajit Agarkar stated that Sudharsan’s progress has been monitored by the selection committee for some time.

He performed well when the England Lions arrived. Due to the IPL, we did not select him. He has demonstrated the proper approach and appears to possess the skills necessary to excel at the highest level. At the press conference, Ajit Agarkar stated, “We have been considering him for some time, but he has never been given a spot on the team.

It feels really unique and unreal: Sudharsan

In the 2024–25 Ranji Trophy, the Tamil Nadu batsman scored 304 runs for his state. In addition, he became accustomed to the circumstances during his two county stints with Surrey in England, where he amassed 281 runs in eight innings, including a century. He has also had a strong IPL 2025 season. The Southpaw, who leads the Gujarat Titans in runs scored (638), has been the mainstay of the team’s batting lineup, which has already advanced to the playoffs.

“Obviously, it feels fantastic. To be honest, it feels both bizarre and extremely special. Any young cricket player who takes up the sport, aspires to play Test cricket, and wants to represent their country. Playing Test cricket is always the ultimate objective. According to ESPNcricinfo, he said, “I’m so happy for that.”