As the squad addresses its all-rounder needs in Test cricket, Indian captain Shubman Gill has stated why the country is looking to Manav Suthar. In a one-off Test against Afghanistan in June 2026, the 23-year-old bowling all-rounder finished with match stats of 7 for 62, including 6 for 33 in the first innings. Suthar’s ascent coincides with the Indian squad dealing with injuries to key all-rounders.
Ravindra Jadeja was rested for the Afghanistan Test, providing Suthar with further opportunities to prove himself on the international stage. The captain’s comments revealed India’s deliberate strategy for balancing the middle order’s batting and bowling duties. Shubman talked on Suthar’s selection in the days leading up to the match.
“I think that’s where someone like Manav comes in,” Shubman was quoted as saying by Cricbuzz.
Of course, you’ll need some experience, as well as some believe and confidence. And that will only happen once you’re out there, playing, and scoring runs,” he added.
Suthar was also encouraged by the right-hander to bat at number eight and help the team.
“I hope he does that in the series. He’s a superb bowler. And he has the potential to be a pretty good number eight hitter,” he added.
Why Suthar matches India’s need for an all-rounder.
Suthar’s profile is appropriate for a specific role in India’s Test setup. Washington Sundar is a bowling all-rounder and Nitish Kumar Reddy is a batting all-rounder for the team, but their injuries forced India to explore elsewhere. Suthar was an ideal candidate for the opportunity created by these circumstances due to his combined bat and ball skills.
In his Test debut, the young all-rounder demonstrated his bowling abilities right immediately. His performance against Afghanistan displayed the talent that piqued the interest of India’s coaching staff and selectors. All-rounders are included in the Test lineup as part of Shubman and head coach Gautam Gambhir’s approach, and Suthar’s success demonstrates their belief in developing players who can contribute in all categories.
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