"There was zero intent in defense" - Ravichandran Ashwin points out major flaw in Indian batter's approach after IND vs SA 2025 Test series

Former cricketer Ravichandran Ashwin has pointed out a major flaw in B Sai Sudharsan's technique after India's humiliating 2-0 series defeat to South Africa at home. Ashwin said the left-hander's defense had zero intent and that he went into his shell, unable to put away bad balls for boundaries.

After getting dropped for the first Test, Sai Sudharsan returned to the playing eleven in Guwahati and batted at No. 3 but failed to make an impact. The southpaw made 15 in the first innings and battled for 139 deliveries in the second, scoring 14 runs. Senuran Muthusamy claimed his wicket as the left-hander nicked one to slip.

With questions raised about the dressing room's environment after Team India's 2-0 series loss to South Africa, Ashwin asserted that finding scapegoats for a dip in performance never makes for a good atmosphere. The 39-year-old stressed that a player can never perform well if he is insecure. Speaking in the latest video on his YouTube channel 'Ashwin,' he said:

"It usually happens that when something goes wrong, there is always a scapegoat. But I don’t consider it as a healthy team environment, it’s not a healthy facet. For instance, if I know that there are question marks about my place, I will want to fight and prove my place. I felt let down in the sense that there was no fight. If a player is insecure, he cannot play well. When Senuran Muthusamy came on to bowl, Sai Sudharsan didn’t put away any of the full tosses or short balls for boundaries. He played inside the line and got caught at first slip. There was zero intent in defense. It’s either technical or tactical."

The spotlight is firmly on head coach Gautam Gambhir, given the Asian giants have suffered two series sweeps at home since he took over. The former Indian opener has left the decision about his future to the BCCI.

"My thought process is attitude first and game second" - Ravichandran Ashwin

Reflecting on how India's Test performance can be improved, Ashwin said that domestic batters need to play more on turning pitches to be better prepared at the international level. He also called for players, who show the stomach for a fight, to be backed strongly. In the same video, he said:

"How we can improve is, many people will have their opinions. I feel first-class cricket needs to be better, start playing on turning pitches and make defense solid against spin. A spin and fast-bowling cupboard needs to be readied. IPL performances are being considered but performances for Test exclusively must be considered."

"Ranji Trophy winners can be given preference. Performance is second but those wanting to stay in the fight must be backed. Attitude brings out performances. My thought process is attitude first and game second. This is a position that Indian team has been in the past, it’s not new. What is the way forward must be looked upon," he concluded.

India and South Africa will now turn their attention to the ODI series, beginning November 30.