India's decision to drop Sai Sudharsan after just one Test had already raised eyebrows. But now after his impressive return at Old Trafford, former Indian spinner R Ashwin has made his views loud and clear: it's time to back the youngster and move on from the Karun Nair experiment.
Speaking on his YouTube show Ash ki Baat with journalist Vimal Kumar, Ashwin questioned the selectors' call to sideline Sudharsan after his debut and criticised the management for trying to make Karun Nair fit into a role he was not suited for.
Follow The Sporting News India on WhatsApp
Ravichandran Ashwin questions Karun Nair's inclusion at No. 3
Ashwin felt Sudharsan's initial omission was unnecessary - especially after he showed clear signs of temperament and technique suited for the No. 3 role.
"What a fine, fine knock for someone playing just his second Test, Vimal bhai. I'm not kidding - he got a chance at No. 3 in his debut, and then he was dropped. That shouldn't have happened. He was your technically sound No. 3 with the right mindset. Karun Nair had never batted at three before. You made him play in an unfamiliar position and that affected his mindset," Ashwin said.
More: India vs England playing XI for Manchester’s match: Confirmed lineups for IND vs ENG 4th Test listed
Ashwin applauded Sudharsan's calm return under pressure - especially after being benched for two Tests and carrying drinks. He believes the left-hander must now be given a long rope.
"Credit to Sai Sudharsan. It's not easy for a youngster - benched after one game, serving drinks, and then coming in when the team's 2-1 down in the series. To respond the way he did in the fourth Test.. I think he has to own that No. 3 spot - not just for a few matches, but for the near future, to give that solidity the team needs," he added.
Sai Sudharsan makes the most of his chance
Sudharsan's 61 off 151 balls in Manchester was more than just numbers. He became the first Indian No. 3 to score a half-century outside India since 2022 and helped steady the innings on a crucial Day 1.
He was dropped on 20 which he capitalised on with maturity. He hit seven boundaries.
Karun Nair's future in doubt
Nair was left out after a string of underwhelming performances. In six innings across three Tests, he averaged just 21 and was the only top-six Indian batter without a half-century.
Despite a good domestic season and a double ton for India A, he failed to carry that form into the England series. According to journalist Kushan Sarkar, Nair may have already played his final Test for India at Lord's.
RELATED LINKS: