"He Is A Brilliant Player...": Ravichandran Ashwin Delighted With Gujarat Titans Star's Inclusion In ODI Squad

Veteran spinner Ravichandran Ashwin has expressed his delight over Sai Sudharsan’s inclusion in India’s ODI squad for the upcoming three-match series against South Africa. While the highly-rated batsman could not find a spot in the squad for the ongoing T20I series, he earned his maiden ODI call-up.

After impressing with his consistent performances in the domestic circuit, Sai Sudharsan caught the attention with his performances in IPL. Plying his trade for Gujarat Titans in IPL 2023, the left-handed batsman from Tamil Nadu smashed 362 runs in 8 games at an average of more than 51 and a strike rate of over 141. He smashed three half-centuries including 96 runs in the final against Chennai Super Kings.

Ravichandran Ashwin on Sai Sudharsan’s inclusion in ODI squad:

Sai Sudharshan has done well in the ongoing Vijay Hazare Trophy too and has scored 181 runs in five innings at an average of 36.2 so far. And with the youngster finally earning his maiden ODI call-up, Ravichandran Ashwin has said that his state teammate deserved it. Speaking on his YouTube channel, the India Test spin spearhead stated that Sai Sudharsan has got what it takes to excel in international cricket.

“Performing for the national team from the state side needs a step up, and I believe he has it in him. It is not easy to do that, since you play in different conditions in international cricket against different bowling attacks. Sai Sudharsan can become the next Indian player from Tamil Nadu and become a fulcrum in the playing XI,” Ravichandran Ashwin said.

“He is travelling to South Africa with the ODI team and there’s a great chance he could open with Ruturaj Gaikwad. Even if Rajat Patidar opens with Gaikwad, Sudharsan can bat at No. 3. Remember, India are looking for a left-hander to bat in the top four. He is a brilliant player of spin and has that fight in him,” he added.

The three-match ODI series will get underway on Sunday (December 17) after the conclusion of the ongoing T20I series. India are currently trailing the T20Is after losing the second game by five wickets (DLS method) on Tuesday (December 12). The first T20I was abandoned without a toss due to rain.