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'Common Sense'- Manjrekar Praises Rohit On Sundar's Selection Over Kuldeep Yadav In 2nd Test Vs NZ

Sakshi Sharma

Washington Sundar and Kuldeep Yadav (Source:@academy_dinda/x.com and @RevSportzGlobal/x.com)Washington Sundar and Kuldeep Yadav (Source:@academy_dinda/x.com and @RevSportzGlobal/x.com)

In the significant development, Former India cricketer Sanjay Manjrekar has lauded the decision to play Washington Sundar over Kuldeep Yadav in the ongoing second Test against New Zealand. Manjrekar shared his thoughts on X (formerly Twitter), and emphasised that the conditions, along with Sundar's recent form, made him a better choice for the match.

"Common sense selection. In-form seamer in. When pitch is offering a lot, you don’t need an artiste like Kuldeep, a tall, quick, finger spinner will do," Manjrekar posted on X/Twitter.

Kuldeep Yadav was dropped after playing just one match in the series. His exclusion comes after also missing out on the recent home Test series against Bangladesh. Meanwhile, it is important to mention that, Sundar was not initially part of the squad but was drafted in following his remarkable performance for Tamil Nadu in the Ranji Trophy clash against Delhi. 

His inclusion in the playing XI was backed by Indian head coach Gautam Gambhir and assistant coach Ryan ten Doeschate, after both highlighted Sundar's ability to exploit the left-handers in New Zealand's batting lineup.

Manjrekar comments suggest that Sundar’s bowling style is better suited to the conditions, especially given New Zealand's batting unit, which includes several left-handed players like Tom Latham, Devon Conway, and Rachin Ravindra. 

Sundar’s Return To Test Cricket After Two-Year Hiatus

Washington Sundar last played a Test for India in March 2021, during the fourth Test against England in Ahmedabad. Sundar was a standout performer in that match, as he scored an unbeaten 96 and helping India secure a series win. 

He first made headlines during his Test debut in the fourth Test of the memorable 2021 series against Australia at The Gabba. In that match, Sundar’s all-round performance contributed significantly to India’s historic victory.

Despite his early promise, Sundar has been in and out of the Test side. To date, he has made just four Test appearances, collecting six wickets and scoring 265 runs at an impressive average of 66.25. His ability to contribute with both the bat and ball has made him a valuable option in India’s lineup, especially in spin-friendly home conditions in the second Test match in Pune.