Former India opener Kris Srikkanth has openly questioned Washington Sundar’s return to India’s T20I squad for the upcoming series against Afghanistan. The all-rounder’s selection has sparked debate, with Srikkanth asking whether Sundar has done enough competitive cricket to prove his match fitness after recovering from a hamstring injury.
Washington Sundar’s Selection Questioned After Injury Layoff
Sundar has been named in India’s squad for the three-match T20I series against Afghanistan. However, his recent period was spent recovering from a hamstring injury, which has raised doubts about his readiness for international cricket.
According to the original story, Srikkanth believes India should have demanded more evidence of Sundar’s readiness before handing him another international call-up. The veteran’s criticism centers on whether the all-rounder has played enough competitive matches to justify his place in the squad.
India vs Afghanistan T20I Series Schedule and Venue
The series against Afghanistan is set to begin on September 13, with the following matches scheduled for September 15 and 17. All three games will be played at New Delhi’s Arun Jaitley Cricket Stadium, giving India a home advantage throughout the series.
Srikkanth’s remarks highlight a broader concern about player selection and fitness management. The former opener’s blunt question — “What is the use?” — reflects his frustration over Sundar’s inclusion without what he sees as sufficient proof of match readiness.
Our Take: Fitness Proof Should Precede Selection
To put it plainly, Srikkanth has a valid point. International cricket demands peak performance, and a player returning from injury needs to show form in competitive matches before stepping back onto the big stage. Selecting Sundar without clear evidence of his fitness could risk both his performance and the team’s balance.
India’s selectors may have reasons for trusting Sundar’s abilities, but the burden of proof should rest on the player. In our view, demanding more competitive cricket from a returning all-rounder is not unreasonable — it is simply smart team management. The upcoming series against Afghanistan will show whether Sundar can silence his critics or prove Srikkanth right.
