India assistant coach Ryan ten Doeschate has given a big update on India’s playing XI for the second Test against New Zealand in Pune. Ten Doeschate stated that R Ashwin is fit to play the next match and also revealed the reason behind Washington Sundar’s inclusion in the team.
Recently, Washington Sundar was included as the 16th member of the team even though Axar Patel was already on the bench. Sundar comes backed by a fantastic hundred in the Ranji Trophy for the Tamil Nadu state team.
The all-rounder scored a classy 152 while batting at number 3 against Delhi. He didn’t stop there and also picked up six wickets in the match. Washington Sundar returned with figures of 3-43 and 3-45 in the two innings of the match.
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Ryan ten Doeschate gives big update on Washington Sundar’s inclusion
During a press conference ahead of the second Test in Pune, Ryan ten Doeschate revealed that India needed a bowler who could divert the ball away from left-handers.
Although India already have R Ashwin in that role, the team management was also looking for a backup option. He also expressed his pleasure at seeing players being rewarded for their performance in first-class cricket.
“We have Axar (Patel) in the team. We wanted to have someone who can take the ball away from left-handers. We want that option. It’s good to see the boys being rewarded by the Ranji Trophy,” said Ryan ten Doeschate.
Ryan Ten Doeschate Press Conference:
On Washington Sundar: We have Axar in the team. We wanted to have someone who can take the ball away from lefties. We want that option. It’s good to see the boys being rewarded with the Ranji trophy. pic.twitter.com/Qyfir2sizl
-RevSportz Global (@RevSportzGlobal) October 22, 2024
R Ashwin is in form – Ryan ten Doeschate
The former Netherlands international made it clear that Ashwin is fit to play the next match. He admitted that the Bengaluru pitch was not suitable for Indian spinners but they will do well in Pune if the pitch offers an opportunity.
“We have to say that Rachin (Ravindra) and Tim (Southee) played very well. Yes, the pitch was not exactly suitable for our spinners. But if it helps them here, I am sure our spinners will do well. Bengaluru was a aberration. He (R Ashwin) is absolutely fine fitness-wise. No problem,“added Ryan ten Doeschate.
On the spinners: We have to say that Rachin and Tim played very well. Yes, the pitch was not exactly suitable for our spinners. But if it helps them here, I’m sure our spinners will do well. Bengaluru was an aberration.
On Ashwin: He is absolutely fine fitness-wise. No problem.
-RevSportz Global (@RevSportzGlobal) October 22, 2024
Performance of the spinners in the Bengaluru Test
The Bengaluru Test was one of the most expensive tests for Indian spinners. Indian spinners conceded runs at an economy rate of 4.83, which is the worst for them at home where they have bowled over 300 balls.
Overall, spinners from both teams conceded runs at 4.93 runs per over, which is the second highest figure for a Test match in which more than 600 balls were bowled. The highest run rate recorded in a match was in the Lahore Test between Pakistan and India in 2006, where spinners from both teams conceded 5.13 runs per over.
The next Test in Pune is likely to be a slow pitch and will help the Indian spinners more. But New Zealand also have some good players in their ranks and it will be interesting to see how India perform in this match.