A major talking point has emerged from the ongoing India vs England Test series as former England captain Nasser Hussain questioned India’s baffling decision to delay introducing off-spinner Washington Sundar into the attack. Speaking during the third day’s play, Hussain expressed disbelief at India’s bowling strategy, calling it “inexplicable” that Sundar, who could have exploited the surface conditions earlier, was kept out of the attack until much later.
With England clawing their way back into the match after a shaky start, Hussain’s sharp criticism has sparked a broader debate about India’s tactical calls, especially in the spin department, where Sundar’s skills have historically proven effective on subcontinental pitches.
India’s Bowling Strategy Under Fire
Nasser Hussain, never one to shy away from tough calls, questioned India’s delayed use of Washington Sundar in the middle overs, where spin was clearly starting to play a decisive role. The former England skipper remarked during the commentary:
“Where’s he been? You’ve got Washington Sundar in the side for a reason. He’s a quality spinner and a useful all-rounder. If the pitch is turning and you have a bowler like him, why wait until the middle session on Day 3?”
According to analysts, the pitch at the venue was already showing signs of wear, offering turn and variable bounce from Day 2. That made Sundar’s absence from the attack in the first two sessions of Day 3 all the more surprising.
Match Situation When Sundar Was Finally Introduced
By the time Washington Sundar bowled his first over, England’s middle order had settled in, with Joe Root and Harry Brook already looking comfortable. India had tried pace and left-arm spin but lacked control, allowing England to recover after early wickets.
| Session | Overs Bowled Before Sundar | Runs Conceded | Wickets Taken |
|---|---|---|---|
| Morning (Day 3) | 37 | 132 | 1 |
| Afternoon | 12 (before Sundar’s spell) | 55 | 0 |
Sundar eventually bowled a tight spell, managing to curb the flow of runs and even finding sharp turn and bounce, which further highlighted the missed opportunity to bring him on earlier.
Experts React: Was It a Missed Opportunity?
Indian cricketing circles quickly lit up with commentary from former players and analysts echoing Hussain’s sentiment. Many felt Sundar could have been used as a controlling bowler early on to exert pressure, especially on a pitch that demanded patience and precision.
Harbhajan Singh, former India spinner:
“Sundar is not just a part-time bowler. He is a thinking spinner. Even if he doesn’t get you wickets immediately, he keeps one end tight. That control was missing.”
Deep Dasgupta, commentator and former wicketkeeper:
“Team India has a tendency to under-bowl Washington. He’s proved himself before in Australia and at home. He’s not just a fill-in. He’s a match-winner on these kinds of tracks.”
Sundar’s Test Record: A Quick Look
Despite limited opportunities, Washington Sundar has quietly built a promising record in Test cricket.
| Match Location | Wickets Taken | Economy Rate | Best Bowling |
|---|---|---|---|
| Brisbane (2021) | 4 | 3.12 | 3/89 |
| Chennai (2021) | 1 | 2.80 | 1/30 |
| Leeds (2021) | 2 | 2.60 | 2/47 |
| Current Test | 1* (so far) | 2.50 | 1/24 |
While he may not yet be a strike bowler like Ashwin or Jadeja, Sundar’s ability to build pressure, bowl long spells economically, and offer resilience with the bat makes him an asset—especially in home conditions.
The Selection Dilemma and India’s All-Rounder Approach
Washington Sundar’s inclusion was part of India’s strategy to add depth in both bowling and batting. His all-round ability is seen as ideal for Tests that demand flexibility. However, critics argue that having him in the XI but not using him when the conditions suit is a tactical failure.
The match saw both Ashwin and Jadeja share a large chunk of the spin burden. Yet, it became clear that a third spin option—especially one who could offer variation with his flatter trajectory and natural drift—was the missing link during the period when England rebuilt their innings.
Fan Reaction on Social Media
Cricket fans flooded social platforms with sharp reactions to the delayed introduction of Sundar.
- @cricketnerd123: “Why pick Sundar if you won’t bowl him until after lunch on Day 3? Management needs to rethink their tactics. #INDvsENG”
- @SpinningTalks: “Even an inexperienced Sundar offers more control than some of the fast bowlers in these conditions. Why the delay? #NasserIsRight”
- @Viru_SehwagFan: “Sundar needs to be backed. He’s a long-term Test asset. Not just a utility player.”
India’s Bowling Breakdown – Day 3
| Bowler | Overs | Runs Conceded | Wickets | Economy |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jasprit Bumrah | 16 | 58 | 1 | 3.63 |
| Mohammed Siraj | 14 | 65 | 0 | 4.64 |
| R. Ashwin | 21 | 71 | 2 | 3.38 |
| R. Jadeja | 22 | 63 | 1 | 2.86 |
| Washington Sundar | 10 | 24 | 1 | 2.40 |
Sundar’s impressive economy and control made an immediate difference as he slowed the run rate and created chances with his subtle variations. But by the time he was introduced, England already had momentum.
The Bigger Question: Is Team India’s Strategy Too Rigid?
This incident has once again highlighted India’s sometimes conservative tactical approach. Despite the growing influence of data analytics and horses-for-courses selection, the reluctance to act on match conditions in real time remains an issue.
India’s decision-making has been under the scanner in recent months—not just in Test matches but also in T20 and ODI formats, where lineup rigidity and under-utilisation of key players have raised questions.
What’s Next for Sundar?
While his performance may now push the team to rethink his role and timing, the episode serves as a reminder that simply selecting a player isn’t enough. Tactical deployment, timing, and trust in their abilities on the field are what ultimately matter.
If Sundar continues to deliver with the ball and potentially with the bat in the latter innings, this match may yet serve as a turning point in how he is viewed—not just as a backup spinner, but a front-line all-rounder capable of influencing Test matches.
Disclaimer: This news article is intended for information purposes only and does not constitute professional sports analysis or endorsement. All views quoted are attributed to respective individuals or public statements.
