‘Why is Sundar batting below Axar?’ – Jason Gillespie’s blunt take before IND vs AUS 4th T20I
Australia’s former fast bowler Jason Gillespie has shared a sharp opinion on India’s team combination ahead of the fourth T20I against Australia, questioning the batting order used in the previous game.
The discussion comes after Washington Sundar’s stunning late cameo that helped India secure a convincing win in Hobart.
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India chased down 187 with ease, thanks to Sundar’s explosive 49* off just 23 balls. The young all-rounder entered the crease after Axar Patel’s dismissal and immediately took charge of the chase.
What did Jason Gillespie say about Washington Sundar’s batting position ahead of IND vs AUS 4th T20I?
Speaking on the Fast Bowling Cartel YouTube channel, Gillespie openly wondered why Sundar was sent to bat after Axar.
He felt the order did not make sense, given Sundar’s superior batting ability and composure under pressure.
“I don’t know why he is batting below Axar Patel. That 49* was absolutely superb. He wasn’t intimidated by the Australian seamers and just looked to take it on. They’ve got a nice batting lineup. I just felt Axar Patel is one or two spots too high in that order. He’s a good player, no doubt. But he is probably more suited to subcontinent conditions,” said Gillespie
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Glenn McGrath also praised Washington Sundar’s approach
Gillespie’s long-time bowling partner Glenn McGrath also had words of appreciation for Sundar.
McGrath, who has worked with the young cricketer during his coaching stints in Chennai, said, “I’ve spent a little bit of time with Washington Sundar in Chennai when I’ve been coaching. He has just got a great attitude. He just goes and backs himself when he gets the opportunity.”
Sundar didn’t bowl in the third T20I but made sure his bat did all the talking. Meanwhile, Axar Patel, batting one spot above him, managed a quick 17 off 12 balls before getting out.
As India prepare for the fourth T20I, it will be interesting to see whether the team management rethinks the order.
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