Just days before the much-anticipated Test against England, Sai Sudharsan is out of the England Test squad. The young left-hander, who many hoped would make his red-ball debut, has been sidelined due to illness. In response, India has brought in two experienced names, Washington Sundar and Karun Nair.
This last-minute adjustment came as a surprise to fans and experts alike. Sudharsan has been in impressive form in recent domestic games and was seen as a rising star. But cricket, like life, is unpredictable. The team had to act fast to fill the gap.
Enter Washington Sundar. A reliable all-rounder, Sundar has already shown his value in the longest format. He offers control with the ball and calmness with the bat. His inclusion gives the team balance, especially in tough overseas conditions.
Sai Sudharsan’s Test match performance so far:
| Statistic | Value |
| Test Debut | June 20, 2025 (vs ENG) |
| Matches Played | 1 |
| Innings Batted | 2 |
| Total Runs | 30 |
| Highest Score | 30 |
| Batting Average | 15 |
| Balls Faced | 52 |
| Strike Rate | ~57.7 |
| 50s / 100s | 0 / 0 |
| Ducks | 1 (first innings duck) |
| 4s Hit | 4 |
Alongside him, Karun Nair returns to the squad. It’s been a while since he featured in India’s Test lineup, but his name still rings a bell. His unbeaten 303 against England in 2016 is part of Indian cricket folklore. While he hasn’t worn the Test cap in recent years, his technique and temperament remain respected.
Looking at the broader picture, this update shifts India’s preparation slightly. With senior players like Kohli and Rohit unavailable, the team needed experienced options. Nair can help stabilize the middle order if required. Meanwhile, Sundar adds depth to both bowling and lower-order batting.
The timing of the change matters too. England’s swing-friendly pitches demand adaptability and game sense. Players with prior exposure to these conditions can make a big difference. Sundar and Nair have both been part of India A tours and have spent time in similar environments.
Even though the team would have liked to stick to their original plan, such situations are part of international cricket. The management seems prepared to adapt, and these replacements show India’s bench strength. It’s not just about filling in spots; it’s about having the right mindset.
Coach Gautam Gambhir now has a few more options to consider. Their challenge is to turn this unexpected change into a winning opportunity. Fortunately, both Sundar and Nair bring calm heads and valuable experience to the squad.
To wrap it up, the news of Sai Sudharsan’s out from the England Test is certainly disappointing, especially for fans eager to see fresh talent on the big stage. But the inclusion of Sundar and Nair offers India a strong backup plan. As the series kicks off, all eyes will be on how these two step up under pressure and maybe create moments worth remembering.
