Bengaluru, Oct 29 (PTI) Sai Sudharsan appears to have secured the No. 3 position in the Indian Test lineup, but the elegant left-hander acknowledges that he is still learning the tactical intricacies that come with this critical role, aiming to effectively counter bowlers. Sudharsan is gearing up for two India A matches against South Africa A preceding the two-match home series against the Rainbow Nation later this month.
"I am refining a lot of my footwork from a technical standpoint. However, more importantly, I am understanding what a number three player has to contribute to the team. I am grasping the role better and striving to implement it," Sudharsan remarked on the eve of the four-day match here. "There aren’t many technical differences; it's primarily about improving tactically. In international cricket, gaining a tactical edge is crucial to being a step ahead of the bowler, and I am working on that."
Sudharsan highlighted that gaining a tactical upper hand is essential since any loopholes can be significantly exposed at the highest level of cricket. "In international cricket, there aren’t many loopholes to exploit. The opponents you face are among the best in their respective countries.
It’s about the tactical changes you employ and the strategies used against particular bowlers, depending on their strengths and weaknesses. I am learning, refining, and determining the best pattern to be India’s No. 3," he commented.
While a cricketer can become somewhat desperate on the learning curve, Sudharsan expressed that he isn’t focusing on consolidating his place in the side as it might lead to a negative mindset. "When I ponder about sealing the spot or scoring runs to secure my place, I tend to become defensive, playing for myself, which is something I never want to do," said Sudharsan.
"I am approaching this differently.
When I enter, it might be a one-on-one duel with a bowler, and I aspire to win that contest, contributing to the team’s advantage, with runs coming as a subsequent benefit," he added. The 24-year-old emphasized that his primary aim is to secure victories for the team over personal accomplishments.
"I play for a purpose. I aim to win matches and fight for my team, which defines my mindset whenever I step in," said Sudharsan. Learning to be adaptable like KL Rahul In that light, the position he bats in isn’t as crucial as his contribution to the team’s success. "Ultimately, playing for India means being prepared for any batting position.
KL Rahul stands as a great example, having batted at various spots.
His versatility teaches us to brace for any challenge.
I have experience playing at number 3 roles, starting from my IPL stint to games at Under 14 and 16 levels, and I enjoy this position," he mentioned. Backing from Gambhir
Sudharsan has so far played five matches, accumulating 273 runs at an average of 30.33 with two fifties, which might appear modest.
Yet, he notes that head coach Gautam Gambhir has consistently supported his cricketing philosophy.
"The support has been impeccable.
For instance, during practice at Feroz Shah Kotla ahead of the second Test against the West Indies, GG Sir called me aside, stating, ‘Don’t get desperate. You're among the best players in the country. Forget about scoring runs this game or future outcomes. You will play,’" recalled Sudharsan. Gambhir’s words liberated Sudharsan from the stress of not achieving a hundred yet.
"I aimed to be unburdened, disregarding external pressures. When such words come from the head coach, they provide immense freedom and alter perspectives and surroundings drastically." Sudharsan’s current focus is on the game against South Africa A, viewing it as a crucial platform before facing the Proteas’ senior team.
"India A matches offer immense value, especially with them preceding the main series.
It's a splendid opportunity to acclimate, strategize, and capitalize on the conditions," Sudharsan concluded.
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