'Has the temperament to challenge...' - Monty Panesar comes up with huge claim on Indian batter ahead of ENG vs IND 2025 1st Test
The former English left-arm spinner believes that the elegant left-handed Indian batter can shine bright in the upcoming five-match Test series against England.
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The five-match showdown between India and England is just around the corner. The first Test is set to get underway at Headingly on June 20. Ahead of the much-anticipated Test, former England left-arm spinner Monty Panesar shares his insight on a young Indian top-order batter who is beginning to make waves in world cricket. The Tamil Nadu-born Sai Sudarshan has been drafted into the Indian side for the upcoming Test series, and he seems to be in the form of his life.
Panesar reckons that the 23-year-old can be an absolute game-changer leading into the series and can provide the Indian side with a much-needed spark at the top of the order. Sudarshan is coming off the back of a stellar IPL 2025 season, concluding the tournament as the highest run scorer with 759 runs across 15 innings.
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Panesar believes Sudharsan can come good in this tour
During his recent interaction with TOI on potential breakout stars, Panesar backs Sudharsan to score big and sees in him the potential to deliver on the big stage. He further adds that he has seen him fare well for Surrey in the domestic County circuit and believes that he has the needed temperament to tackle the English bowlers.
"I think Sai Sudharsan is one of those players who could become the breakout star of this tour. He’s done well for Surrey and has the temperament to challenge England’s bowlers."
The youngster recorded a breakthrough season for Surrey last year, notching up a solitary century (105 runs) against Nottinghamshire at Trent Bridge, which included 10 fours and a six. In two seasons so far, Sudharsan has accumulated 281 runs. Overall, the Tamil Nadu-born left-handed batter has shown promise and contributed immensely to Surrey's success in the County Championship in recent times. His familiarity with the English conditions will give him the desired edge to combat the hostile English pace attack.
In the absence of Rohit Sharma, Sudharsan will have a key role to play at the top of the order as he is likely going to open the batting with Jaiswal. With the first Test at Leeds looming large, the world gears up to see Sudharsan represent India for the first time in whites.
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