Following the loss to New Zealand in the first Test in Bengaluru, the Indian cricket team management opted to add all-rounder Washington Sundar to the squad for the next two matches. It was an unexpected decision made by head coach Gautam Gambhir and team management, with many fans and experts questioning whether it was done out of ‘desperation’ following the loss. India assistant coach Ryan ten Doeschate rejected any such allegations, stating that the decision was made to add a bowling option to the squad that can take the ball away from New Zealand’s left-handers.
“Not. The New Zealand XI includes four left-handed players. We’ve had Washy on the white-ball squad for a while and enjoy how he operates. It’s also wonderful that players are rewarded for their Ranji Trophy performances. We simply want to make sure we’re well prepared for the circumstances here, and if that means pulling the ball away from the left-hander, we want that option,” he told reporters at the MCA Stadium before India’s training session.
Ten Doeschate also stated that fast bowler Mohammed Siraj is now experiencing a “wicket drought” but there is no evidence to suggest that he is suffering with his rhythm.
Siraj bowled well in the second innings. “That hour of Test match cricket on the last morning was extremely high quality,” he stated.
There’s nothing to indicate that he’s not bowling well or has a poor rhythm. Perhaps he is simply suffering from a wicket drought. However, there are no problems this time. The coach said India would have to play according to the conditions, not against quick bowling in particular.