Sudharsan has accumulated 302 runs across six Test matches with an average of 27.45. However, Gambhir feels that this sample size is insufficient to fully evaluate the abilities of the Tamil Nadu batsman in the longest form of the game. The India coach suggested that Sudharsan is currently favored over Devdutt Padikkal, who is still awaiting another Test opportunity since his outing against Australia in Perth in 2024.
“Honestly, Sai hasn’t been given a fair chance. He’s played just a few Test matches. Additionally, he started his Test career in England, which is known to be a challenging environment,” Gambhir stated ahead of the one-off Test against Afghanistan set to begin on Saturday.
“He’s also had an impressive IPL season (722 runs), and we’re committed to giving him a fair opportunity. I firmly believe he hasn’t yet received a fair chance,” Gambhir firmly addressed any debate regarding the No. 3 position.
Gambhir maintained that it is unjust to critique Sudharsan too critically, considering the difficult conditions he has faced early in his Test career. Notably, three of his six matches took place in England, where pitches favoring seam bowlers have historically presented considerable challenges for visiting batsmen. Emphasizing stability over frequent changes, Gambhir asserted that Sudharsan warrants an extended run in the team before any judgments are made regarding his fit for the No. 3 role.
This decision also means that Padikkal will have to remain patient, as Sudharsan is expected to play the next 10 Test matches, barring any fitness concerns.
“You can only select 11, and unfortunately, sometimes players have to wait (like Devdutt) for their opportunity,” Gambhir remarked when asked about Padikkal’s chances of selection.
To successfully build a team, it’s essential to provide deserving players with ample time to prove themselves, stated the former India opener.
“Sai isn’t in poor form either; he has around 700 runs in the IPL. If we only judge players based on four or five Test matches, we risk failing to build something substantial. So, I hope he will get his time,” he emphasized.
However, he also offered encouraging words for Padikkal, whom he believes will have his own chance to shine.
“When Padikkal’s time arrives, we’ll ensure he gets a fair opportunity as well. It’s not about giving one player five Test matches and another only one. If we afford one player a fair run, we’ll grant the other player a fair shot when the opportunity arises as well.
“For now, I think we have to allow Sai a fair run, as he is also a world-class player of high quality, and I’m confident he will succeed,” the head coach concluded with assurance.
(With PTI inputs)
