Pujara advises Manav Suthar to prioritize Test cricket over IPL
Following Manav Suthar’s recent performance in Galle, former India batter Cheteshwar Pujara has urged the young left-arm spinner to focus on his development in red-ball cricket. Pujara believes Suthar should prioritise the Test format over pursuing an Indian Premier League (IPL) contract.
Suthar, at 24 years old, has made an impact in his initial Test appearances for India. He followed a significant impact on his debut against Afghanistan in New Chandigarh with a 10-wicket performance in Galle. In the first Test against Sri Lanka, Suthar secured six wickets in Sri Lanka’s second innings, contributing to India’s 165-run victory and a 1-0 lead in the series.
Pujara’s advice on IPL and Test cricket
Pujara emphasised the importance of preserving Suthar’s development as a red-ball specialist. He suggested that while young players might be interested in the shorter format, India should aim to protect Suthar for Test cricket. Pujara clarified that he is not against Suthar playing in the IPL if an opportunity arises, but cautioned him against altering his natural bowling strengths.
“Try to preserve him. We have had this discussion in the past that, yes, all the young players might want to play the shorter format, but India should be looking to preserve him for the Test format. Yes, he might want to play the IPL, but don’t go there. I mean, yes, if he gets the opportunity to play the IPL, that’s fine, but don’t change your strength,” Pujara stated on the Sony Sports Network.
Pujara believes Suthar does not need to significantly change his bowling style for white-ball cricket. He noted that while a flatter trajectory is often needed in white-ball formats, Suthar should not compromise the qualities that make him effective in Tests, such as his ability to flight the ball and bowl slower.
Suthar is currently contracted with Shubman Gill’s Gujarat Titans in the IPL. His exposure in the tournament has been limited, with reports indicating he has played a small number of matches and taken a few wickets.
Suthar’s bowling strengths and Galle performance
Pujara highlighted Suthar’s natural ability to flight the ball and bowl slowly as key attributes for Test cricket. He advised Suthar not to change these inherent qualities solely for the IPL. Pujara also pointed out Suthar’s willingness to attack with flight, even with a new ball, as a reason for his success against Sri Lanka.
“For someone like Manav Suthar, who is flighting the ball, who is willing to go a little slower, when it comes to red-ball cricket, you don’t need to change that. Don’t change yourself just for the IPL. I can understand, but don’t change your natural ability, which is to flight the ball,” Pujara added.
Suthar’s performance in Galle was crucial for India. He followed up with 6/55 in the second innings, achieving a 10-wicket match haul. This victory secured valuable World Test Championship points for India and gave them a lead in the two-match series.
The Test concluded during the second session on the fifth and final day, with rain forecast. Suthar and Ravindra Jadeja ensured India completed the match without weather interference. India will now aim to complete a series whitewash when they face Sri Lanka in the second Test, which begins in Colombo on August 23.
Source: timesofindia.indiatimes.com
