Former India spinner Anil Kumble believes that if Indian captain Shubman Gill does not get fit before the start of the second Test of the ongoing two-match series against South Africa in Guwahati, then Sai Sudharsan could return to the team.
Kumble said on Star Sports: “India will certainly be hoping that Shubman Gill is fit for the next Test. If he isn’t, Sai Sudharsan will likely come back in. If India continues with six bowlers – two pacers and four spinners – then the rest of the team should remain the same. That might be the only change.”
Devdutt Padikkal scored a brilliant 150 in an unofficial Test against Australia A recently, so he could be another option in the middle order. However, Kumble added: “If India chooses not to go with that combination, the other batting option is Devdutt Padikkal. However, bringing him in would make the entire top order left-handed, which could invite someone like Simon Harmer to come in and bowl all day.”
India played two seamers — Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammed Siraj — in the first Test, and Kumble thinks the same plan may continue.
“I don’t think India will play three seamers unless the pitch is a green top. We don’t know that yet. But overall, India should stick with a similar lineup — with the only possible change being Gill, if he’s fit. If he isn’t, Sai Sudharsan comes in.”
However, team India skipper already got discharged on the evening of November 16, but he has been reportedly advised to rest for the next 4–5 days. All eyes will be on his recovery, considering that the second Test in Guwahati is scheduled to begin on November 22.
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