Published: Jul 22, 2025, 12:42 PM (IST)
Edited: Jul 22, 2025, 12:42 PM (IST)
Kuldeep Yadav has consistently been a top choice among cricket experts, and pundits across the board had urged his inclusion in India’s playing XI. They believed that a wrist-spinner would add much-needed depth to the bowling attack. However, their recommendations have largely been ignored. In Manchester, India faced a must-win fourth Test. Kuldeep’s selection remained a topic of debate. Even though the final decision was expected on Wednesday morning, Ravi Shastri backed Gautam Gambhir’s most trusted player.
India’s defeat in the Leeds Test last month prompted many to back Kuldeep Yadav for a place in the playing XI. Gautam Gambhir maintained a balance between batting and bowling by fielding more all-rounders. Washington Sundar, who made an impressive return to the Indian squad in last year’s home series against New Zealand, was included in the XI. With 77 runs and five wickets in two innings, the 25-year-old justified his selection.
On The ICC Review, Ravi Shastri recalled his first impression Sundar and predicted that he would be India’s next big all-rounder.
“I always loved Washington. When I saw him on day one, I said he’s the man. And he can be a genuine all-rounder for many, many years for India,” former head coach said.
Sundar made his Test debut at the Gabba in 2021, when India defeated Australia. Even though he impressed with a flawless pull shot for six off Pat Cummins, he still had limited appearances due to recurrent injuries. He took 30 wickets in 11 Tests and scored 545 runs.
According to Shastri, Gambhir was expected to continue backing Sundar, who had demonstrated his ability in home conditions by claiming 16 wickets in four innings against New Zealand.
“He again is just 25 years of age. I think he should have played a lot more Test cricket,” Shastri said. “Can be lethal in India on tracks where the ball is turning, as New Zealand found out when they played against India. He out-bowled some of the senior spinners. He bowled that well and he can bat,” Shastri added.
Shastri also felt that Sundar should have been promoted to No. 6 in the Test series owing to his impressive batting potential. While usually batting at No. 7 or lower, Sundar scored four fifties with an average of 38.92. His debut 62 at the Gabba was followed by two unbeaten scores against England at home: 85 and 96.
“He’s a naturally talented batsman,” Shastri said. “He’s no number 8. He can go at 6 very soon in the batting lineup.“
Shastri’s support and Sundar’s recent performances helped him position himself for a long and successful career as a mainstay of India’s Test setup.
