Former Indian cricketer Anil Kumble has shared his thoughts on Washington Sundar's batting position, which has become a major point of debate during the ongoing two-match Test series against South Africa. In the first Test at Eden Gardens in Kolkata, Sundar was surprisingly promoted to No. 3, with Sai Sudharsan left out of the playing XI.
However, the team management reversed course in the second Test at the Barsapara Cricket Stadium in Guwahati. Sudharsan returned to the XI, and Sundar was pushed down to No. 8 in the batting order. The all-rounder's demotion drew widespread criticism, especially after Sundar responded with a gritty 48 off 92 balls lower down the order, further complicating the reasoning behind the decision.
The Tamil Nadu-born cricketer forged a vital 72-run partnership for the eighth wicket with Kuldeep Yadav after India had slumped to 122 for 7 in their first innings in Guwahati. Their stand proved crucial in helping the hosts cross the 200-run mark, though it still was not enough to prevent South Africa from securing a commanding 288-run first-innings lead. Despite the advantage, South Africa captain Temba Bavuma opted against enforcing the follow-on and chose to bat again.