Washington Sundar added as BCCI announces revised India squad for remaining Tests in New Zealand

India officially updated their squad for the upcoming second and third Test New Zealandwhich includes the installation of Washington Sundar as a change only. The Tamil Nadu bowler will join the team in Pune, where the second Test will be played from October 24, as confirmed by the team. Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) on Sunday, October 20. The decision comes after India suffered a humiliating eight-wicket defeat in the first Test, marking their first home defeat in the longest run in the game in 36 years. The first innings collapse, in which the Indian team was bowled out for just 46 runs – losing the last six wickets for just 15 runs – raised serious concerns ahead of the next matches.

Amazing return of Washington Sundar to the team

The BCCI did not elaborate on the reason for adding Sundar to the squad that already includes popular players like R Ashwin, Ravindra Jadeja, and Axar Patel. However, his recent performance in the Ranji Trophy could be a key factor. Sundar got off to an impressive start to the season, scoring 152 runs batting at No. 3 against Delhi at Arun Jaitley Stadium and got two wickets. He is expected to complete his Ranji Trophy stint on Monday before heading to Pune to join the Indian team.

Sundar’s journey back to test cricket

Having last played a Test match in March 2021 against England, Sundar’s return is eagerly awaited. His journey was interrupted by injuries, which kept him out of Tests for a long time. However, he has remained active in limited overs formats, taking part in three T20Is against Bangladesh earlier this month, where he showcased his skills. The inclusion of Sundar gives India more depth in the spin department as they look to make a comeback in the series.

The expected row for the rest of the thread

Meanwhile, Jasprit Bumrah has retained his place in the team despite concerns about his career ahead of the crucial tour of Australia. KL Rahul also retains his place despite struggling in the Bengaluru Test. Shubman Gill, who missed the first Test due to a neck problem, is expected to regain his place in the playing XI for the Pune Test. Additionally, batsman Rishabh Pant, who faced a knee injury scare in the first match, has been included in the squad, ensuring that India will have a strong squad as they aim to level the series against New Zealand.

Updated India squad for second and third Test 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.