Former India captain and legendary spinner Anil Kumble has weighed in on India’s selection dilemma for the crucial Guwahati Test against South Africa, following the unfortunate injury to captain Shubman Gill. Gill, who had been a pivotal presence at No.3, sustained a neck injury during the opening Test at Eden Gardens and was subsequently ruled out for the remainder of the Kolkata match and is doubtful for the second Test at the Barsapara Stadium, starting November 22.
Anil Kumble picks his batter for the Guwahati Test
With the second Test looming and India trailing the series, team management faces a critical call between Sai Sudharsan and Devdutt Padikkal, both fresh faces in the Test squad. Speaking to experts and the media, Kumble made his preference clear, stating, “If Gill isn’t fit, Sai Sudharsan should come in. Padikkal is an option, but with him the entire top order turns left-handed, which might play into South Africa’s hands, especially with Simon Harmer in the attack.”
Kumble’s comments are rooted in tactical nuance. Simon Harmer, South Africa’s seasoned off-spinner, exploited left-handers to great effect in the Kolkata Test, finishing with remarkable figures of 8 wickets. “Harmer could bowl all day at a left-handed top order,” cautioned Kumble, referencing India’s historically challenging matchups against quality off-spin, especially when multiple left-handers pad the lineup.
Sudharsan, who impressed in domestic cricket and the recent India A tours, is seen as a composed presence at No.3, offering a blend of right-handed solidity and fresh temperament under pressure. Kumble added, “Sudharsan can anchor the innings, and with Harmer’s effectiveness, having a right-hander in the mix is crucial for balance.”
Bowling mix to play vital role as India aim for redemption
Beyond the immediate batting conundrum, Kumble also commented on India’s bowling strategy for the Guwahati Test. Addressing the potential for more pace options, he explained, “I don’t think India will play three seamers unless it’s a green top, which isn’t typical in Guwahati. They will stick with the core combination that has brought success on most home surfaces—two pacers, along with Ashwin, Jadeja, and perhaps Harmer as South Africa’s answer.”
Kumble’s confidence in India’s existing attack highlights the team’s trust in their spin arsenal while being vigilant about any surprises the pitch may hold.
India’s defeat in Kolkata saw them slip to fourth in the World Test Championship 2025–27 table, intensifying the stakes for the second Test. The top-order reshuffle brought about by Gill’s absence could affect both strategic flexibility and psychological momentum as the hosts battle to draw level in the series and avoid a rare home defeat to the Proteas.
