Former Indian batter Suresh Raina has backed Sai Sudharsan to replace Karun Nair in the fourth Test match against England. Sudharsan made his Test debut against England in the opening Test of the series at Leeds, Headingley and returned with scores of 0 and 30.
On the other hand, Nair returned with scores of 40 and 14 in the third Test match as he once again could not deliver for the visitors. The 33-year-old has scored 131 runs in three Test matches against England in this series at an average of 21.83.
Raina said he feels Nair is stuck somewhere in his technique.
Suresh Raina said on Sports Tak, “I think India should go with the same team. However, Sai Sudharsan can be an option because he has done really well. You gave Karun Nair a chance, and he played knocks of 30-35. He is playing well, but just give a chance to Sai Sudharsan. You will have another left-handed batter in the side. He plays the sweep and the reverse sweep quite well. I feel Karun Nair is stuck somewhere.”
Meanwhile, Nair has been getting off to starts in the ongoing series but he hasn’t been able to convert them into substantial scores. Former Indian wicket-keeper Farokh Engineer is not impressed with Nair’s performances against England thus far.
Engineer said on TOI, “Karun Nair has been getting brilliant 20s and 30s. He’s (Nair) scored beautiful 30 runs, beautiful cover drives and all that. But a beautiful 30 is not expected from a No. 3. You’ve got to get a not-so-beautiful 100. You need runs on the board. You need (to score) bigger. The expectation should be much higher.”
“We should pick the best XI. I haven’t seen much of Sai Sudharsan. You’ve got to pick the best player for the time being. Who’s going to give you maximum? You are playing for your country. Your reputation is at stake. So, I would say, forget the age. If he’s good, play him to win this Test match.”
The fourth Test match between England and India will be played at Emirates Old Trafford, Manchester, from July 23 onwards.
