India lost the first Test match against New Zealand in Bengaluru by eight wickets after choosing to bat first and were bowled out for just 46, their second-lowest total in the format. Despite a strong comeback, India was only able to reach the visitors’ target of 107 runs after New Zealand had established a commanding 356-run lead. Questions were raised following the defeat regarding the choice to deploy three spinners and bat first on a pace-friendly pitch in cloudy conditions.
Following several days of defeat, bowling-all-arounder Washington Sundar was added to India’s roster.
After an unexpected loss at home, Sundar has returned to the Test squad after nearly four years, a move that some have characterised as desperation. Ryan ten Doeschate, India’s assistant coach, responded to the remark by saying that Sundar is part of the team to challenge the New Zealand southpaws and take the ball away from them.
“We appreciate Washy’s style of play and have had him on the white-ball team for a long. It’s also good to see that men are receiving recognition for their Ranji Trophy achievements. It’s not a desperate move, so maybe that sends a positive message to the other guys. We have a lot of faith in our spinners, and we just want to make sure we’re ready for the conditions. If it means pulling the ball away from the left-hander, we want that option,” Doeschate said, as HT reported.
Rachin Ravindra, a young southpaw from New Zealand, is noteworthy for his outstanding performance in the first innings.
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Devon Conway, another lefty, spoilt India’s hopes with 91 runs while he hit 134 runs off 157 balls. From an Indian perspective, it seems sense that Sundar, a right-arm spinner, would be useful.
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