ENG vs IND: India's defeat in the first Test did not just cause the pain of a defeat, but also raised many important questions. Despite setting a huge target of 371 runs in Leeds, India lost by five wickets. In such a situation, it is natural to discuss some important changes.
On the last day, there were reports of Sai Sudharsan suffering a shoulder injury. So far, it is believed that his injury is not serious, but in conditions like the England tour, any player must be fully fit. If Sai is unable to play the next Test, then the Indian team has some interesting options to replace him at number three.
1. Abhimanyu Easwaran
The first name in this list is Abhimanyu Easwaran. He has been scoring runs in domestic cricket for a long time. His patience, technique and ability to change the game according to the situation make him ideal for this position. His habit of battling against the new ball in English conditions and his habit of playing long innings can prove to be a boon for Team India.
Easwaran has already participated in the England tour as a reserve player. The effect of such experiences can be clearly seen in the field. Sending him at number three can give stability to the batting order, as there will be no extra pressure on Gill and the middle order.
2. Dhruv Jurel
If the team management wants to adopt a slightly aggressive approach, then Dhruv Jurel can be given a chance. He is a wicketkeeper batsman, but he has also proved himself as a pure batsman. He has rescued the team in many important innings at the domestic level, and his ability to play under pressure is visible in him. However, this experiment can also be a bit risky, as Jurel's experience on foreign soil is quite limited. But if India decides to push back Gill at number three, then Jurel might be one of the options.
3. Washington Sundar
The third name may surprise you a bit – Washington Sundar. But his selection can be completely strategic. Sundar can contribute with both the ball and the bat. Along with off-spin, he is also capable of batting at number three, as he has shown earlier. If the team feels the need for an all-rounder and the pitch is a bit slow, then Sundar can be sent at number three to provide depth. This will also give India a sixth bowler as well, and the batting lineup will also be long.
