India have officially updated their squad for the upcoming second and third Tests against New Zealand, featuring the inclusion of Washington Sundar as the only change. The all-rounder from Tamil Nadu is set to join the team in Pune, where the second Test will take place from October 24, as confirmed by the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) on Sunday, October 20. This decision comes on the heels of India’s disappointing eight-wicket loss in the first Test, marking their first defeat at home in the longest format of the game in 36 years. The first innings collapse, where the Indian side was bowled out for a mere 46 runs – losing their last six wickets for just 15 runs -has raised significant concerns ahead of the next matches.
Washington Sundar’s impressive return to the squad
The BCCI did not elaborate on the rationale behind adding Sundar to a squad that already includes established all-rounders like Ravichandran Ashwin, Ravindra Jadeja and Axar Patel. However, his recent performance in the Ranji Trophy could be a significant factor. Sundar has made an impressive start to the season, scoring 152 runs batting at No. 3 against Delhi at the Arun Jaitley Stadium and also claiming two wickets. He is expected to complete his duties in the Ranji Trophy on Monday before heading to Pune to link up with the Indian squad.
Sundar’s journey back to Test cricket
Having last played a Test match in March 2021 during a series against England, Sundar’s return is eagerly anticipated. His journey has been hampered by injuries, which kept him out of the Test setup for an extended period. Nevertheless, he has remained active in limited-overs formats, participating in three T20Is against Bangladesh earlier this month, where he showcased his skills. Sundar’s inclusion offers India additional depth in the all-round department as they look to bounce back in the series.
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Expected line up for the remaining series
Meanwhile, Jasprit Bumrah retains his place in the squad despite concerns about his workload ahead of the crucial tour of Australia. KL Rahul also keeps his spot despite struggling in the Bengaluru Test. Shubman Gill, who missed the first Test due to a neck issue, is expected to reclaim his position in the playing XI for the Pune Test. Additionally, wicketkeeper-batter Rishabh Pant, who faced a knee injury scare in the first match, is included in the squad, ensuring that India will have a strong team as they aim to level the series against New Zealand.
India’s updated squad for second and third Tests against New Zealand:
Rohit Sharma (c), Jasprit Bumrah (vc), Yashasvi Jaiswal, Shubman Gill, Virat Kohli, KL Rahul, Sarfaraz Khan, Rishabh Pant (wk), Dhruv Jurel (wk), Ravichandran Ashwin, Ravindra Jadeja, Axar Patel, Kuldeep Yadav, Mohd. Siraj, Akash Deep, Washington Sundar.
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