Washington Advocates for Batting Strategy Overhaul After India Stumbles Against South Africa

On Monday, India couldn’t capitalize on nearly ideal batting conditions at Barsapara Stadium, surrendering control of the second Test against South Africa. The home side managed only 201 runs in the first innings, allowing South Africa to establish a 288-run lead. This was largely due to the Indian batters’ poor shot selection against a disciplined South African bowling lineup.

Both Indian skipper Rishabh Pant and Dhruv Jurel fell to aggressive shots against left-arm pacer Marco Jansen. Despite this, Indian all-rounder Washington Sundar defended their shot choices. “On another day, both those shots could have cleared the stands, earning applause. That’s cricket,” Washington commented during a media interaction after Day 3. He added, “Sometimes, backing their plans and skill sets is necessary, given their past performances. Unfortunately, the execution wasn’t as we hoped.”

India started the day well with an opening partnership of 65 runs between Yashasvi Jaiswal and KL Rahul but stumbled to 122 for seven after losing quick wickets. Washington acknowledged that India didn’t have a specific strategy for how long or how fast they should have batted in their first innings. “In a five-day match, especially against a quality attack, focusing on the score or run rate isn’t essential. We aim to approach it like any other Test innings. Planning for tomorrow might have been our approach if we had only lost 4-5 wickets today,” Washington explained.

Washington, batting at No. 8, was India’s top-scorer with a determined 48-run innings, following a successful stint as the team’s top scorer batting at No. 3 in the previous Test in Kolkata. Despite the uncertainty in his batting position, Washington remains flexible. “I’m happy to bat wherever the team needs me. It makes the game more exciting and is part of the team’s strategy,” he said. Comparing it to football, he added, “Good players may sometimes only play 20-30 minutes. Strategy is crucial in sports.”

When questioned about India’s prospects in the Test, Washington remained optimistic yet reserved. “Got to stay positive in life. You never know what will happen.”

Published on Nov 24, 2025.