Ajinkya Rahane has asked the Indian team management to provide security and long-term backing to whoever plays at No. 3 for India in Test matches.
Speaking on Ravichandran Ashwin’s YouTube channel, Rahane described Washington Sundar as a “bowling all-rounder” and stressed the importance of clarity in roles.
“I’ll take a name—Sai Sudharsan. He did well, scored 87 and 39. Batting at No. 3 requires a completely different skill set compared to 6 or 7. Washy is an amazing talent, but batting at No. 3 can be confusing for him. He must be wondering, ‘How do I set my game?’ Washy, I believe, is a bowling all-rounder. If he has to bat at No. 3, he needs to prepare differently and be given time. Batting lower down the order demands different skills and mindset. Whether it’s Washy or Sai, giving security is of utmost importance.”
Sundar was promoted to No. 3 by the Indian team management in the first Test of the two-match series against South Africa at Eden Gardens in Kolkata. In a low-scoring match, the 26-year-old scored 29 in the first innings and top-scored for India in the second innings with 31.
Rahane also said that any player chosen for the No. 3 slot should be backed for a longer period instead of being judged on a few innings.
“If the team management is looking at Sai as a long-term No. 3, he should be given a long rope—same with Washy. A player’s career is on the line, and if you want stability, you must give them consistent opportunities,” he added.
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