The former wk-batter Dinesh Karthik was left baffled over India’s call to send Shardul Thakur to bat ahead of Washington Sundar in the first innings of the fourth test in the Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy.
With 40 minutes of play still to go, Team India promoted Shardul in the batting order, likely as a nightwatchman.
Speaking on the promotion, former cricketer said, “I was extremely surprised. Washington has shown real composure with the bat in this series and before.”
“He’s someone who thrives with recognised batters around him. With Pant gone and Sai Sudharsan just dismissed, it was the perfect moment for Sundar to come in and steady things,” he added on air.
“Just looking at the numbers, I mean, Washington averages nearly 39 in Test cricket, and Shardul is down at 17. And he’s not being sent out. He’s not a nightwatchman-there’s still 40 minutes of play here, and a new ball around the corner,” said Ricky Ponting who was in commentary box.
Shardul was part of the playing 11 in the first test at Headingley and was dropped for the second and third test.
“All the more reason [to send Sundar ahead of Shardul]. He played in the first Test match, was dismissed pretty cheaply, a couple of loose shots,” said Ravi Shastri.
“He’s someone who builds an innings. He plays with intent, yes, but with a certain understanding of tempo when batting with top-order players. He’s not quite the same when batting with the tail. So, to not send him in with about 40 minutes of play left, and the second new ball looming, is a strange one,” said Dinesh karthik.
Batting first, Openers Yashasvi Jaiswal and KL Rahul amassed 58 and 46 runs, respectively. Meanwhile Sai Sudharsan added 61 runs on the board, alongside skipper Shubman Gill, who departed after adding 12 runs on the board.
After Rishabh Pant retired hurt on a score of 37 runs, day 01 of the clash ended with Ravindra Jadeja and Shardul Thakur standing on the crease on scores of 19* runs each.
The second day’s play will resume with Shardul Thakur and Ravindra Jadeja at crease.
