“I’m really worried for Sai Sudharsan” - Indian legend’s huge statement on team selection after IND vs SA 2025 1st Test

Former India spinner Ravichandran Ashwin questioned the team management's long-term intention by naming Washington Sundar at No.3 at Sai Sudharsan's expense during the first Test against South Africa at the Eden Gardens in Kolkata. The Men in Blue went with an unorthodox approach by including four spinners with an all-rounder at No.3, while the left-handed batter was benched once again.

Team India have been striving for No.3 amid transition, but are yet to settle on a choice, or provide a decent run for a candidate. Karun Nair and Sai Sudharsan had a run at the top-order spot during the 2025 Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy, before the youngster was locked in for the home series against West Indies.

Despite recording a promising 87 in the second Test against Roston Chase and co. in Delhi, Sudharsan found himself out of the playing XI once again. Earlier, he was dropped right after his debut at Headingley, Leeds, against England.

Ashwin opined that the lack of a consistent run of appearances will eventually affect the players' confidence.

"I'm really worried for Sai Sudharsan, he is a good player. What would he be thinking after being dropped? I always feel that four spinners is too many to have in a team. Washington Sundar did not even bowl in the second innings. You play four spinners, then you don't give a single over to one of them. These are all going to play into the confidence of the players," R Ashwin said on his YouTube channel.

"I know that in a T20I you tend to go with all-rounders, but specialists will work in Tests. In many ways, to create a lot of stability without insecurity, and giving people the roles are extremely crucial. These are crucial WTC Points, India were looking prime to be in the final, because even Gill said at the toss that he will win one directly in the final. But we have to reach there first, and this match is a huge blow for that," he added.

The former spinner urged the team management to lock in their choice for the No.3 batter, and not to tamper with it, according to conditions.

"He (Sundar) has the ability. But whether it is the right decision, only time can answer. We can speak about it, and dissect it after a loss, but we have to give him time. I really think Sai Sudharsan has a good future. If we are to build the team around a No.3, you need a No.3 for that. See the batters that have played at No.3, and there is stability required. If you are taking the Washington Sundar route, I hope you stick with Washi for a few years. The decision for the No.3 batter cannot be fleeting, depending on the conditions," Ashwin elaborated.

Washington Sundar delivered a decent set of performances in his maiden outing at No.3 on a tough wicket, scoring 29 and 31 in the first and second innings, respectively, but he bowled only one over in the entire match.

"India will be burning the midnight oil now" - R Ashwin urges 'under pressure' hosts to not dwell on pitch ahead of IND vs SA 2025 2nd Test

Team India have a crisis to deal with ahead of a crucial second Test against South Africa. Shubman Gill's injury and unavailability, coupled with the batters' inability to play spin, are all major concerns as the hosts look to avoid a second series loss at home in the space of 12 months.

R Ashwin advised India to focus on their preparation and build confidence instead of focusing on how the pitch will behave.

"The pressure is now all on India. If I am sitting in the South Africa dressing room, I will start looking downwards from now itself, because there will be no bounce in Guwahati, and I will also be going in with a lot of smiles. India will be burning the midnight oil now. They will already be thinking about what wicket to prepare, what combination to play. I would say forget about the pitch, and focus on the practice and confidence. If we do that, I think we will come out okay. But, if we continue to obsess over the pitch, I think we are in for another trouble-filled Test," R Ashwin concluded.

The second Test between India and South Africa will commence from Saturday, November 22, onwards at the Barsapara Stadium in Guwahati. This marks the first time that the venue hosts an international red-ball match.