Jason Gillespie Questions Batting Order in India T20I XI
During the third T20I against Australia in Hobart, Washington Sundar made a significant impact by scoring an unbeaten 49 after coming in at No. 6, following the fall of Axar Patel's wicket in a 186-run chase. His performance helped India secure their first win in the T20I series.
Former Australia pacer Jason Gillespie expressed surprise over the batting positions of all-rounders Axar Patel and Washington Sundar in India's T20I XI, questioning why Axar was placed above Sundar in the batting order.
Batting Positions and Performance
- Axar Patel usually bats at No. 5 during the Australia tour.
- Washington Sundar batted at No. 6 and impressed with a 49* in Hobart.
- Sundar’s knock was crucial in helping India cross the finish line alongside Jitesh Sharma.
“I don’t know why he is batting below Axar Patel. That 49* was absolutely superb. He wasn’t intimidated by the Australian seamers and just looked to take it on. They’ve got a nice batting lineup. I just felt Axar Patel was one or two spots too high in that order. But he is probably more suited to subcontinent conditions,” Gillespie said on the Fast Bowling Cartel podcast.
Additional Commentary
Gillespie also reflected on his long-time Australia teammate Glenn McGrath’s experiences playing alongside Washington Sundar in Chennai, highlighting Sundar’s skills and adaptability.
Overall, Gillespie emphasized that Sundar's recent performance demonstrated his ability to handle pressure and pace bowling effectively.
Author’s Summary
Jason Gillespie questions India's decision to bat Axar Patel above Washington Sundar, praising Sundar's impactful unbeaten 49 in the T20I series against Australia.