Ignoring Sundar proves costly as England takes control in 4th Test.
India trail England after underutilising Washington Sundar despite his previous match heroics
India’s tactical decisions on Day 3 of the 4th Test against England in Manchester have come under heavy criticism, with captain Shubman Gill facing questions over his late use of spinner Washington Sundar.
Despite Sundar picking up four key wickets in the previous match, he was introduced into the attack only in the second session on Day 3. By then, England’s top-order – Ben Duckett, Zak Crawley, Ollie Pope, and Joe Root – had already done significant damage.
Why Was Washington Sundar Introduced So Late?
The delay in bringing Sundar into the attack proved costly:
- England took full control, with Joe Root smashing a record-breaking 150.
- Sundar still managed two quick wickets, proving his effectiveness.
- India now trail England by 186 runs, and are down 1-2 in the five-match series.
This decision sparked criticism from former cricketers and commentators alike.
Manjrekar Points Finger at Team Management
Speaking on JioHotstar after stumps, Sanjay Manjrekar raised a key question:
“Can we assume these decisions were taken solely by Shubman Gill? At this stage of his career, you’d expect him to get inputs. Or has everyone just stepped back because he’s doing well as a batter?”
Manjrekar hinted that senior players like Jasprit Bumrah, KL Rahul, or head coach Gautam Gambhir should have stepped in:
“I can’t see everyone agreeing to this. Surely, Gambhir or the seniors wouldn’t think Sundar shouldn’t bowl, come what may.”
Ravi Shastri: ‘Gill Must Trust His Spinners’
Former India coach Ravi Shastri also criticised the move on Sky Sports:
“Gill has to trust his spinners more. Washington Sundar gave him four second-innings wickets in the last game at Lord’s. Spinners like longer spells. On a day like this, you’d expect your spinner to accept responsibility and deliver.”
India’s Struggle Continues in Manchester
- England dominate Day 3, largely thanks to Joe Root’s big knock.
- India’s bowling decisions backfired, leading to their worst day of the series.
- The team faces an uphill battle to save the Test and the series.
India now need a dramatic turnaround on Day 4, but the tactical missteps have already tilted the game in England’s favour.
Also Read : Ricky Ponting Slams Shubman Gill and Bumrah Over Tactical Blunders in Manchester Test
