Sai Sudharsan Should Get a Consistent Test Run, Says Saba Karim Ahead of Guwahati Test
Former India wicketkeeper-batter and national selector Saba Karim believes it is time for India to back young batter Sai Sudharsan with a proper run in Test cricket, especially with Shubman Gill ruled out of the second Test against South Africa due to a neck spasm.
Speaking on JioStar’s Game Plan, Karim said India must show trust in their young talent, rather than rotate too quickly. “If you are invested in a player like Sai Sudharsan, you must give him enough opportunities to showcase his talent. Only then can he play with freedom,” he said.
Background: India Seek Balance Despite Batting Concerns
India trail the two-match series 0-1 after a tough 30-run defeat at Eden Gardens, where batting collapses overshadowed spirited bowling spells. With Gill unavailable, Sudharsan — who didn’t feature in the first Test — is expected to be drafted into the XI for the Guwahati match starting Saturday.
Karim also suggested that India revert to a two-seamer, three-spinner combination, citing home conditions and the need to strengthen the batting lineup. “Young Indian batters haven’t delivered consistently at home in recent times. India must bulk up the batting and trust Sudharsan,” he said.
The 22-year-old debuted in England earlier this year and has played five Test innings, scoring 273 runs including two half-centuries. His best came against West Indies in New Delhi where he scored 87 and 39, helping India sweep the series 2-0.
Kumble's Advice: Shift in Mindset Needed
Former India captain and head coach Anil Kumble echoed tactical concerns, urging the team to adapt mentally rather than blame conditions.
“The Eden Gardens pitch forced batters to think differently. But in Tests, you must think session by session,” he said. Kumble emphasised patience for both batters and bowlers: “You cannot think of hitting a quick 20 to survive. Adjusting your mindset is far more important.”
What’s Next
With Sudharsan likely to slot in at No. 3 or No. 4, India will aim to level the series and rebuild confidence after their rare home defeat.
Final Thoughts from TheTrendingPeople.com
Sai Sudharsan represents India’s new generation of technically strong and mentally composed batters. With Shubman Gill unavailable and India searching for middle-order stability, this is the ideal moment to show long-term faith in young talent rather than short-term fixes. As Saba Karim highlighted, consistent backing often unlocks a player’s true potential. Anil Kumble’s perspective also reminds the team that Test cricket is a mental game first — especially in challenging home conditions. Guwahati offers India a chance to reset, rebuild and bring renewed discipline. All eyes will now be on how India uses Sudharsan’s promise at a crucial stage.