'It's Like Pressing The Panic Button'- Brian Lara On IND All-Rounder's Batting Position For SRH
Sundar was run out for nine against CSK last night [Source: IPLT20.com]
Continuing their underwhelming run, Sunrisers Hyderabad incurred another defeat in the ongoing Indian Premier League season, losing to Chennai Super Kings by seven wickets on Friday. Batting first, SRH posted a paltry 134 on the board, which CSK chased successfully, courtesy of Devon Conway's flamboyant half century.
Among several players who haven't turned up for the Sunrisers, premier all-rounder Washington Sundar has been the most disappointing, managing only 36 runs across four appearances. He has been horrendous with the ball too, as he has conceded 118 runs without picking a single wicket so far.
However, SRH head coach Brian Lara believes Sundar is on the right track to become a game-changer for the franchise and could be an asset for them with both bat and ball going forward.
"Washington’s value to the team is both to bowl and bat, but we have got players who can play at the top positions. With Washington, yes, we want him to be that great all-rounder with both bat and ball, but I think it’s going to take time."
Despite having potential, Sundar has mostly been used as a lower-order batter in the IPL this season. Speaking on his batting position, Lara opined that they have plenty of top-order options, which is why promoting the southpaw up the order will be like pressing the panic button early in the tournament.
"Pressing the button and saying that this kid has potential and let’s get him up [the batting order], that’s pretty much pressing the panic button."
Speaking of SRH, the Aiden Markram-led outfit is reeling at the ninth position in the IPL 2023 points table, losing four of their six games. Up next, they will take on the bottom-sitters Delhi Capitals in the 34th match of the tournament on April 24.