Thu Oct 24 18:56:50 UTC 2024: **Article Summary: Washington Sundar’s Inclusion in IND vs NZ Test**
1. **Selection Controversy**: Former Indian cricketer Sunil Gavaskar termed Washington Sundar’s inclusion in the second Test against New Zealand as an “inspired selection” but initially criticized the decision to drop Kuldeep Yadav for him.
2. **Team Changes**: India made three changes for the second Test, replacing Kuldeep Yadav with Sundar, as well as bringing in Akash Deep and Shubman Gill for Mohammad Siraj and Lokesh Rahul, respectively.
3. **Gavaskar’s Doubts and Praise**: Gavaskar expressed that the changes seemed hurried, noting India was trailing 0-1 in the three-match series after losing the first Test by eight wickets. However, he later acknowledged Sundar’s potential for both batting and bowling.
4. **Sundar’s Performance**: Sundar impressed during the match, taking five wickets for 59 runs and significantly helping to restrict New Zealand to 259 runs in their first innings. He dismissed key players, including Ravindra, who had performed well in the previous Test.
5. **Historical Context**: This match marked a notable instance where all ten wickets of a team in a Test match were taken by right-arm off-spinners, showcasing Sundar’s effective return after almost two and a half years away from Test cricket.
6. **Coach’s Reaction**: The camera captured India’s coach Gautam Gambhir discussing strategies with his assistant, indicating the team’s focus on game performance amid strategic changes.
In conclusion, Washington Sundar’s outstanding bowling performance in the second Test earned him commendation, especially following initial skepticism about his selection amidst India striving to equalize the series against New Zealand.
First Piper 