Trisha Ghosal in Birmingham
With the Edgbaston Test less than a day away, India’s optional practice session on Tuesday gave a few key hints about the likely playing XI, and one name might be missing. Karun Nair, who stood at first slip throughout yesterday’s training, was not present at the ground today. In contrast, Sai Sudharsan, who batted for a long stretch at the nets, was later seen taking a series of slip catches in the first slip position.
It’s a subtle but telling sign. Slip catching practice usually reflects the expected match-day fielding positions. That Sai was in the cordon today, in Karun’s usual spot, suggests a possible shuffle in the pecking order. It also indicates that the team management is likely backing the left-hander to retain the No.3 spot and contribute more permanently in the slip cordon. Captain Gill and head coach Gautam Gambhir were looking on, and Gill was talking to Sai, explaining a few key points to him. In fact, both Sai and Gill practised slip catching for spinners as well.
If the signs from the training session offer an indication, Karun may have to wait longer for another Test innings. Final confirmation will come at the toss, but with Jasprit Bumrah already confirmed to be available, although his body language at least is suggesting he will be taking rest in this one, and combination calls to be made, this Sai-Karun switch could be one of the key talking points when the XI is revealed.
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