India have officially updated their squad for the upcoming second and third Tests New Zealandincluding Washington Sundar as the only change. The all-rounder from Tamil Nadu is all set to join the team in Pune, where the second Test will be held from October 24. Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) Sunday, October 20. This decision follows India’s disappointing eight-wicket loss in the first TestHe recorded his first defeat at home in the longest game format of 36 years. The first innings collapse in which the Indian side struggled for just 46 runs – losing the last six wickets for just 15 runs – raised significant concerns ahead of the next matches.
Washington Sundar’s impressive return to the squad
The BCCI did not reveal the main reasons behind Sundar’s addition to the already established squad of all-rounders. Ravichandran AshwinRavindra Jadeja and Akhar Patel. However, his recent performance in the Ranji Trophy could be a significant factor. Sundar made an impressive start to the season, scoring 152 runs at No.3 against Delhi at the Arun Jaitley Stadium and also taking two wickets. He is expected to complete his Ranji Trophy duties on Monday before leaving for Pune to link up with the Indian team.
Sundar’s journey to test cricket
The last time he played a test match was in March 2021 during the series against EnglandSundar’s return is eagerly awaited. His journey has been hampered by injuries, which have kept him out of testing for a long time. Despite this, he has remained active in limited-overs formats, appearing in three T20Is. Bangladesh showed off his skills earlier this month. Sundar’s inclusion offers India added depth in the all-rounder department as they look to make a comeback in the series.
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Expected order for remaining series
Meanwhile, jasprit bumrah retains his place in the squad despite workload concerns ahead of the crucial tour. Australia. KL Rahul also retains his place despite struggling in the Bengaluru Test. Shubman GillHaving missed the first Test due to a neck problem, he is expected to regain his place in the playing XI for the Pune Test. In addition, goalie-prone Rishabh pantsFacing a knee injury scare in the first match, he was included in the squad, ensuring that India have a strong team as they aim to level the series against New Zealand.
India’s updated squad for the second and third Tests against New Zealand:
Rohit Sharma (c), Jasprit Bumrah (vc), Yashasvi Jaiswal, Shubman Gill, Virat Kohli, KL Rahul, Sarfaraz Khan, Rishabh Pant (wk), Dhruv Jurel (wk), Ravichandran Ashwin, Ravindra Jadeja, Axar Patel, Kuldeep Yadav Mohd. Siraj, Akash Deep, Washington Sundar.
