India’s playing XI for the first ODI against England has once again put the spotlight on Washington Sundar‘s selection.
Despite underwhelming performances in the recently concluded T20I series, the all rounder has found his place, while wrist spinner Kuldeep Yadav has been left out.
The decision has surprised many because Kuldeep has been one of India’s most reliable wicket taking spinners in ODI cricket.
Instead, the team management has preferred Sundar. India have also included Axar Patel, meaning both spin bowling all rounders have been picked ahead of a specialist spinner.
The move comes after India’s spin attack struggled in the T20I series against England.
Axar and Sundar failed to make a major impact with the ball, but the selectors have continued to back the same combination in the 50 over format. It suggests that the management values batting depth over a specialist wrist spinner.
Sundar has now become one of the few Indian players to feature regularly across all three formats this year.
Whether it is Tests, ODIs or T20Is, he has remained a constant in the playing XI despite stiff competition for his spot. That has sparked debate among fans, especially with Kuldeep waiting on the sidelines.
India’s selection also reflected the same approach in the pace department. Prasidh Krishna was preferred over Arshdeep Singh, while Gurnoor Brar earned a place in the XI ahead of Prince Yadav.
The England series is now a big opportunity for Washington Sundar. A strong performance could silence the backlash surrounding his place in the side.
India Playing XI: Shubman Gill (Captain), Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer, KL Rahul (Wicketkeeper), Shivam Dube, Axar Patel, Washington Sundar, Prasidh Krishna, Jasprit Bumrah, Gurnoor Brar.
