Gujarat Titans (GT) batter Sai Sudharsan has recently been selected for India’s Test squad to play against England. The five-match series begins on June 20, 2025. This series will start a new World Test Championship cycle, with the final scheduled for 2027.
Sudharsan’s strong performance in IPL 2025 earned him this opportunity. He scored 679 runs in 14 matches at an average of 52.23. Fans and experts have praised his careful, low-risk batting style. This technique helped him succeed in the shorter formats of cricket.
Former Coach Raises Concerns About Technique and Domestic Form
However, Sulakshan Kulkarni, Sudharsan’s former coach at Tamil Nadu, doubts his chances in England. He worked closely with the left-handed batter during the 2023/24 season. Kulkarni pointed out issues with Sudharsan’s technique and domestic record.
He told The Times of India, “His domestic record is not strong. I saw him struggle on seaming tracks in two matches. His technique against the moving ball needs improvement.”
Kulkarni added, “He plays away from the body too much. In England, success requires playing the ball late and close to the body. Sudharsan must adjust his strokes. He should play straighter and keep the bat near his body.”
Sudharsan’s Experience in English Conditions
Sudharsan has some experience playing in England. He represented Sussex in the 2023 and 2024 county seasons. There, he averaged around 35 and scored his first First-Class century on English soil.
In total, he has played 29 First-Class matches, scoring 1,957 runs at an average of 39.93.
Can Sudharsan Prove His Critics Wrong?
As the England tour approaches, all eyes will be on Sudharsan. It will be interesting to see if he adapts well to England’s challenging conditions. Success will depend on how well he improves his technique, especially against swinging deliveries.
This series could be a major test for the young batter, and it could shape his future in Test cricket.
