Former Australia captain Michael Clarke believes India should consider Sai Sudharsan for the No. 3 spot in the upcoming Test series against England. With Virat Kohli’s retirement creating a significant gap at No. 4, newly appointed skipper Shubman Gill is likely to take over that position.
As Gill moves down the order, India now faces the task of finding a dependable replacement at No. 3 a role he had firmly held in recent years. Clarke suggested that India should place Sai Sudharsan in the key No. 3 position, expressing confidence that the left-handed batter will surely get a chance during the England tour.
“To me, this kid is a superstar, Sai Sudharsan. I think he is a number three in Test cricket. I think he is probably going to open the batting in time in India’s T20I and ODI team. He is in their Test squad. He gets his first opportunity in England.” Clarke said on the Beyond23 Cricket Podcast
Sudharsan enjoyed a stellar IPL season, claiming the Orange Cap after scoring 759 runs in 15 matches at an impressive average of 54.21 and a strike rate of 156.17, including a century and six half-centuries. The left-hander also bagged the Emerging Player of the Year award, edging out contenders like Priyansh Arya, Noor Ahmad, and other promising talents.
Clarke was highly impressed by Sudharsan’s IPL showing, praising his solid technique and his knack for scoring big runs with minimal risk.
“I think he can walk in straight to bat at number three. I think technically he’s very good, he’s got all the shots and mentally, he’s ready. He really impressed me and he’s a good looking player as well,” Clarke said
However, Karun Nair has also put forth a strong claim for the No. 3 spot, having scored a remarkable double century while batting in that position during India A’s opening match on the England tour.
The post ‘To me, this kid is a superstar…’: Michael Clarke backs IPL youngster for key role in India’s Test squad against England appeared first on Cricket Country.
