The Indian cricket team is currently undergoing a shift in the Test format. Following the retirement of experienced players, opportunities are opening up for emerging talents. Sai Sudharsan, a young batsman, is facing challenges in establishing himself, as evidenced by his performance in the first Test against the West Indies.
In the Ahmedabad Test, after restricting the West Indies to 162 runs, India started their batting innings. Although Jaiswal and Rahul provided a promising start, Sudharsan, batting at number three, was unable to build on it, getting out for a mere 7 runs.
This was Sudharsan’s fourth Test match and his seventh innings, where he fell short of making a substantial score. Since his debut during the England tour, he has struggled to convert opportunities. Over seven innings, he has scored only 147 runs at an average of 21, with just one half-century.
These numbers are concerning for the Indian team and especially for Sudharsan. While he is relatively new to international cricket, specifically Test cricket, and made his debut in challenging conditions, his performances will need to improve. The team management will need to see improvement soon.
With limited batting opportunities in the upcoming Tests, and facing the possibility of being dropped from the squad for the South Africa series if he doesn’t perform, Sudharsan’s position is in jeopardy.