Saturday, March 29, 2025
Former Team India head coach Ravi Shastri has strongly recommended including young batter Sai Sudharsan in India’s Test squad for the upcoming tour of England, calling him an “all-format player.” According to Shastri, the left-handed batter has the technique and temperament to succeed in challenging overseas conditions, especially in England.
Team India is set to begin its next ICC World Test Championship (WTC) cycle (2025–2027) with a high-stakes five-match Test series against England, starting June 20 at Headingley. India, having missed the WTC 2023 final, is keen to bounce back strongly. The squad is expected to see a few fresh faces, and Shastri believes Sai Sudharsan deserves a spot.
Playing for Gujarat Titans, Sai Sudharsan has impressed everyone with his consistent performances. He currently ranks second among the highest run-getters this IPL season with 456 runs. His prior experience in county cricket and sound batting technique make him a strong contender for the England tour, especially under swinging and seaming conditions.
“Sai Sudharsan is a solid batter across all formats. I believe he can thrive in Test cricket as well, particularly in England where technique is tested the most,” said Shastri in a recent ICC review.
While praising Sudharsan, Shastri also mentioned Shreyas Iyer as a possible pick for the Test squad. However, he acknowledged that Iyer will face stiff competition due to the depth of talent currently available.
“Shreyas Iyer can make a comeback, but it won’t be easy. He’s a sure pick for white-ball formats, but for Test cricket, we’ll have to see who else is in the mix,” Shastri added.
With Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammed Shami expected to return from injury, Shastri emphasized the need for a left-arm pacer in India’s bowling attack to provide variety.
He also highlighted Arshdeep Singh as a promising candidate, but warned against labeling him as a “white-ball specialist.”
“We need a left-arm fast bowler who can serve as a sixth bowling option. Arshdeep has the potential. If he can bowl 15-20 overs in a day in red-ball cricket, he should be considered. He’s thoughtful and brings variety,” said Shastri.
Shastri’s recommendation to take Sai Sudharsan to England could shape India’s strategy for the WTC and beyond. With strong IPL performances and the right skill set for overseas Tests, Sudharsan may soon don the whites for India.
