Veteran Indian off-spinner Ravichandran Ashwin hopes that talented left-handed cricketer Sai Sudharsan can make the most of his maiden India call-up for the three-match ODI series against South Africa. After stunning performances at the domestic cricket level as well as in the IPL and for India A, Sudharsan is now a part of the Indian squad led by KL Rahul. Ashwin also believes that the youngster can bat anywhere in the playing XI.

In a video on his YouTube channel, Ravichandran Ashwin said: “Performing for the national team from the state side needs a step up and I believe he has it in him. It is not easy to do that since you play in different conditions in international cricket against different bowling attacks. Sai Sudharsan can become the next Indian player from Tamil Nadu and become a fulcrum in the XI.”

Ashwin further added: “He (Sudharsan) is travelling to South Africa with the ODI team and there’s a great chance he could open with Ruturaj Gaikwad. Even if Rajat Patidar opens with Gaikwad, Sudharsan can bat at No. 3. Remember, India are looking at a left-hander to bat in the top four. He is a brilliant player of spin and has that fight in him.”

However, Ravichandran Ashwin who continues to play in the domestic leagues in Tamil Nadu when he is not playing for india, spotted a difference between Sudharsan and other batters that he has bowled against.

“When I play in lower divisions, the batter plays against me with a bit of anxiety. I know I can get them out in 10 balls if they aren’t confident enough. However, Sai Sudharsan knows his game plan and plays me through the leg side comfortably. I have observed that he just keeps adding to his game every six months be it power-hitting, fitness, etc. I really hope the wickets in South Africa are good and he can go out and express himself,” Ravichandran Ashwin concluded.