Sourav Ganguly Questions Washington Sundar at No. 3: What It Means for India’s Test Strategy

Former India captain Sourav Ganguly has sparked a debate by questioning Washington Sundar’s suitability at the No. 3 batting position in Test cricket, raising concerns about India’s lineup strategy for overseas tours.

Why the No. 3 Spot Is Crucial in Test Cricket

The No. 3 position is one of the most challenging in Test cricket. A batter at this spot may need to:

• Walk in early if an opener is dismissed cheaply

• Stabilize the innings and build long partnerships

• Handle both the new ball and older ball with skill

• Exhibit patience, technique, and mental toughness

Historically, players like Rahul Dravid, Cheteshwar Pujara, and Ricky Ponting have thrived in this role, proving its importance in a team’s long-term success.

Ganguly’s Take on Washington Sundar

Ganguly expressed concerns that Sundar may not be the ideal No. 3, noting:

• He is primarily an all-rounder, not a specialist top-order batter

• In overseas conditions like Australia, England, and South Africa, technical skill is crucial

• The role demands consistency and experience, which Sundar may not fully provide in this position

Team Balance vs. Top-Order Stability

India’s experiment with Sundar at No. 3 reflects an attempt to strengthen the spin attack. However, Ganguly argued that:

• A solid top-order is essential for Test success

• Over-prioritizing team balance could lead to early collapses

• Flexibility should not compromise the core batting lineup

Sundar’s Value as an All-Rounder

Despite the criticism, Ganguly acknowledged Sundar’s strengths:

• Provides depth in both batting and bowling

• Has performed under pressure, including India’s 2021 Gabba Test win

• Best utilized as a lower-middle-order all-rounder, not a No. 3 anchor

Long-Term Implications for India

As India prepares for upcoming major overseas tours and the World Test Championship, the No. 3 position remains a strategic concern:

• A specialist batter is critical for consistency

• Young domestic talents could be groomed for this role

• Team management must balance short-term experimentation with long-term stability

Selecting the right No. 3 could define India’s Test fortunes for years.

Conclusion

Sourav Ganguly’s comments highlight a fundamental question for Indian cricket: Should team balance override top-order stability? While Washington Sundar is a talented all-rounder, the No. 3 position demands a specialist capable of anchoring the innings. India’s leadership faces a crucial decision in shaping a batting lineup that can succeed consistently, both at home and abroad.

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