India’s No. 3 position in Test cricket has long been a seat of responsibility and technique, once graced by the likes of Rahul Dravid and Cheteshwar Pujara. But with the current lineup struggling to cement that slot, is it time for some out-of-the-box thinking? Is Washington Sundar, yes, the off-spinning all-rounder—the answer India didn’t know it had?
Before you raise your eyebrows, let’s rewind.
A Proven Performer Under Pressure
Sundar’s Test resume might still be in its early stages, but it’s full of gritty performances that scream temperament and technique—two qualities vital for a No. 3 batter. Take the Gabba Test in 2021, for instance. India was reeling at 161/5 against a lethal Australian attack, and Sundar walked in to score a priceless 62. His 123-run partnership with Shardul Thakur was crucial to India’s historic win in Brisbane.
In the Chennai Test that same year, India was 192/5 in response to England’s mammoth 578. Sundar remained undefeated on 85—one of the lone warriors who took the fight to the opposition. Then in Ahmedabad, after India collapsed to 146/6, it was Sundar again who stitched a match-winning 113-run stand with Rishabh Pant. He was stranded on 96 not out, robbed of a maiden hundred because he simply ran out of partners.
Consistency Across Conditions
Fast forward to the Melbourne Test in 2024—a tough tour for most Indian batters. Australia piled up 474. India? 221/7. But Sundar stood tall again, scoring yet another crucial half-century and stitching a 127-run partnership with Nitish Reddy. India lost the match, but Sundar once again made his presence felt.
And then came Manchester 2025—his breakthrough moment. Batting at No. 5 this time, Sundar finally registered his maiden Test hundred in a match-saving effort that showed just how far he’s come.
Here’s the kicker—he's done all this in just 12 Test matches, and he’s not even 26 years old. His batting average? A stellar 45.
Why India Should Consider Him at No. 3
Yes, Sundar is officially an all-rounder. Yes, he has 32 Test wickets. But his batting isn’t a bonus—it’s a legitimate strength. He plays spin and pace with equal ease, he has the temperament to grind in tough conditions, and most importantly, he thrives under pressure. Isn’t that exactly what you want at No. 3?
With India’s current struggles at that crucial position, perhaps it’s time to think beyond the conventional. Washington Sundar at No. 3 might just be the bold move India needs.
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