Ajinkya Rahane
Ajinkya Rahane (Image Credit: Twitter)

India’s Test vice-captain Ajinkya Rahane explained why Washington Sundar found a spot in the playing XI for the Brisbane Test ahead of left-arm chinaman Kuldeep Yadav. Kuldeep Yadav was the third spinner in the squad after the likes of Ravichandran Ashwin and Ravindra Jadeja.

With both the spinners injured, it was time for Kuldeep to get a game, but instead, Washington Sundar who was a net bowler for the test series found a spot in the playing XI.

In spite of being fit and also with a five-wicket haul in Australia when India toured in 2018, Kuldeep was benched again. After the historic series win, Kuldeep was specially mentioned by Ajinkya Rahane in the dressing room for keeping the positivity around even while sitting on the bench. It would have been really tough for the left-arm spinner to not get a game but Rahane did mention the reason behind the move.

Kuldeep Yadav
Kuldeep Yadav. [Credits – BCCI]

Kuldeep Deserved To Get A Game

Ajinkya Rahane told that Kuldeep Yadav deserved to play as he was there as a spinner. Rahane mentioned the need for an all-rounder in place of Jadeja who was ruled out due to the injury. The only all-rounder left in the squad was Washinton Sundar and being a better batsman, he was picked for the Brisbane test ahead of Kuldeep Yadav.

Read More  Ravi Bopara reveals how Punjab Kings' co-owner Preity Zinta goes out of her way to favour her players

Also. Rahane wanted the option of 5 bowlers and Sundar could be the only possible fit in for that combination. Indeed, Sundar batted really well in the Brisbane test and proved that he was the ideal pick in the playing XI.

“It was a really tough call because Kuldeep was there as a spinner and he deserved to play. But then we had to see our best combination for the given day and the Test match. Washington came in because of his batting. I was thinking about playing 5 bowlers and he could give us that option as well. We know he is a very good batsman and he proved that,” said Ajinkya Rahane.

Washington Sundar, Nathan Lyon
Washington Sundar. [Image Credits: Twitter]

Boosting The Confidence Is Really Important For Kuldeep’s Future

Rahane also stated about the role of Kuldeep in the team is very important and his future really depends on the confidence that is provided inside the dressing room. He also told about backing the players and how every player can be a match-winner.

I know Kuldeep’s role in our team is very crucial and he will play a big part in future as well. For me boosting the confidence of players in their abilities is really important,” Ajinkya Rahane remarked.

Greg Chappell, India
India (Credits: Twitter)

Ajinkya Rahane led India to a famous series win in Australia without the senior player available and this series will go down as one of India’s greatest series wins.

Read More  ICC delegation not happy with PCB's arrangement for Champions Trophy 2025? Dark clouds loom large after fresh update from Pakistan