As India gear up for a must-win Test at Old Trafford, former cricketer Suresh Raina believes that the real X-factor might not be Jasprit Bumrah, but a 23-year-old batter who has made his Test debut this series.
Speaking to Sports Today, Raina suggested that Sai Sudharsan could give India the edge they need in the fourth Test against England—especially with the series on the line at 2-1. India suffered a heart loss at Lord's in the third Test, and Karun Nair struggled again at No. 3.
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While Raina acknowledged that Bumrah's return could boost the bowling, he believes the batting order needs a shake-up. Sai Sudharsan might be the ideal pick to handle England's seamers under pressure.
Suresh Raina says Sai Sudarshan could be India's X-factor in Old Trafford
Raina explained that Sudharsan’s left-handedness and ability to play sweeps and reverse sweeps could be vital in England's conditions.
"Sudarshan has the temperament. I feel he can be an X-factor. If Karun is stuck and only making 15 or 30, why not give Sai a go at No. 3? He plays spin well, sweeps, reverse-sweeps and gives you a left-hand option in the middle. You've already given Karun a chance. And though he is a good player, he has been stuck a bit," said Raina.
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Raina didn't hold back in saying Karun has not done enough to hold his place. He added that the left-right combination could help disrupt England's rhythm.
"When Yashasvi gets out, a lefty like Sai at No. 3, followed by Rishabh Pant later, keeps their bowlers guessing. Against left-handers, England's lines go off slightly. We've seen that with Stokes and even Carse around the wicket," he added.
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India have just two games to overturn the deficit and end an 18-year wait for a series win in England. For that, Raina believes decisions like playing Sudarshan could make all the difference.