India lost the first Test against South Africa by 30 runs at Eden Gardens in Guwahati on Sunday, November 16. This marked their third defeat in the ongoing World Test Championship edition. South African spinner Simon Harmer dominated with match figures of 8/51, earning the Player of the Match award for his exceptional performance on a spin-friendly track. Indian captain Shubman Gill suffered a neck injury after facing just three balls in the first innings and could not return to the field, leaving vice-captain Rishabh Pant in charge. With Gill's availability for the second Test starting Saturday, November 22 uncertain, former India captain Anil Kumble shared his views on potential replacements. Kumble suggested Sai Sudharsan as the frontrunner, cautioning that bringing in Devdutt Padikkal would create a left-handed top order vulnerable to Harmer's off-spin bowling.
Kumble Picks Sudharsan Over Padikkal for Second Test
Former India captain Anil Kumble believes Sai Sudharsan should replace Shubman Gill if the captain remains unavailable for the second Test. While Devdutt Padikkal is also part of the squad, Kumble warned against his inclusion. Adding another left-hander would make the entire top order left-handed, potentially allowing off-spinner Simon Harmer to dominate throughout the day. Kumble expects India to maintain a similar lineup with two pacers and four spinners unless Barsapara Cricket Stadium in Guwahati offers a green top. He emphasized that India should continue with six bowlers, making Sudharsan the only likely change if Gill cannot recover from his neck injury in time.
Source: Link