Monty Panesar’s predictions aren’t just speculative—they tap into a deeper narrative around India’s evolving Test squad
Sai Sudharsan symbolizes fresh energy and technical flair, while Shardul Thakur embodies the utility and resilience required in tough overseas conditions.
Whether either or both of them emerge as genuine game-changers remains to be seen. But their presence and potential impact highlight one undeniable truth: India is no longer reliant on just a few stars.
It’s a team brimming with options, backed by performances across formats and geographies.
If Sudharsan makes his debut and Thakur finds rhythm, England could face more than just a competitive Indian side—they could face the dawn of a new Test era for Indian cricket.
Karun Nair has one more shot to prove that he belongs at the highest level. KL Rahul has the responsibility to guide a young team through transition and turbulence. Together, they symbolize both continuity and change.
If Nair finds his rhythm and Rahul continues to anchor, India might not just compete—they might conquer. And in doing so, they’ll usher in a new middle-order era that could define the next half-decade of Indian Test cricket.
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Monty Panesar: India’s Next Test Sensation in the Making?
As India prepares for a high-stakes five-Test series in England starting June 20 at Headingley, Leeds, a fresh wave of anticipation surrounds 23-year-old Sai Sudharsan.1
Former England spinner Monty Panesar believes Sudharsan could be the game-changer for India during the tour. A bold claim, considering Sudharsan has yet to make his Test debut.
However, Panesar’s prediction isn’t without merit. Sudharsan had an explosive IPL 2025 campaign, amassing 759 runs in 15 matches—making him the tournament’s top scorer.
His hunger for runs and calm under pressure caught the eyes of many, but it’s his red-ball credentials that are particularly intriguing.
Sudharsan has had experience playing in English conditions thanks to his stint with Surrey in the County Championship. That gives him a distinct advantage over other debutants.
As Panesar noted in an interview with Times of India, “He’s done well for Surrey and has the temperament to challenge England’s bowlers.” Panesar’s assessment is more than wishful thinking—it’s a recognition of a player who could bridge India’s generational transition in Test cricket.
The greatest modern-day batter have elevated Indian cricket to new heights! But now the big question looms: who will step up and take the iconic number 4 spot? #ViratKohli https://t.co/R8XERMRNVd
— Monty Panesar (@montypanesar) May 12, 2025
From Domestic Star to National Contender
Sai Sudharsan’s meteoric rise didn’t happen overnight. A product of Tamil Nadu’s domestic system, Sudharsan was earmarked as a special talent early in his career.
His ability to play both pace and spin with equal ease made him a consistent run-getter in the Ranji Trophy. But it was his adaptability across formats that truly set him apart.
In the IPL, he showed maturity beyond his years, anchoring innings and accelerating when needed. But behind the glitz of T20 cricket lies a player with a classic technique—one that is tailor-made for the challenges of red-ball cricket. His time at Surrey, albeit brief, was illuminating.
He adjusted to the seam and swing movement, learned to bat time, and refined his shot selection under overcast skies and green pitches.
That grounding might prove vital on England’s lively wickets, where early movement and the Duke ball often trouble even seasoned batters. Sudharsan’s ability to leave the ball well, coupled with his solid front-foot game, gives him the toolkit to succeed.
Monty Panesar’s Pick Carries Weight
A Unique Perspective on Indian Talent
Monty Panesar’s praise isn’t a mere headline-grabber. As someone who played 50 Tests for England and understands the intricacies of subcontinental batting in English conditions, Panesar’s opinion offers valuable insight.2
His calling out Sudharsan as a “breakout star” is particularly notable because of the player’s Test inexperience.
Panesar has followed Indian cricket closely since retirement and has spoken about India’s bench strength on multiple occasions.
His selection of Sudharsan, over more established names like Yashasvi Jaiswal or Shubman Gill, is a statement of intent. It’s a bet on raw talent and situational preparation over seniority.
The fact that Sudharsan has already tasted county cricket success means Panesar sees a smoother transition for the left-hander into the rigors of Test cricket. In many ways, Panesar is voicing what many Indian fans are beginning to hope—that a new batting star is ready to announce himself on the biggest stage.
The X-Factor India Might Rely On Again
- While Sudharsan brings promise, Panesar also pointed to experience—highlighting Shardul Thakur as another player who could shape the outcome of the series.
- Thakur, 33, may not be India’s spearhead with the ball, but his value lies in versatility and unpredictability.
- “He gives India an option as a second-change bowler who can take wickets and be economical,” Panesar said.
- “He naturally pitches it up.” That observation is critical. In English conditions, bowlers who keep it full and exploit swing often reap the most rewards.
- Thakur is known for his knack for breaking partnerships and delivering in crunch moments. His previous performances in England support that.
- Most notably, his 2021 Test heroics at The Oval—where he scored twin fifties and took crucial wickets—played a pivotal role in India’s win.
Monty Panesar: Stats Don’t Tell the Whole Story with Shardul
Thakur’s bowling average of 37.10 in England might not be eye-catching, but it doesn’t reflect his impact.3
He often bowls short, aggressive spells, aimed at unsettling the batters and creating chances. With Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammed Siraj likely to lead the attack, Thakur’s ability to swing the ball and chip in with the bat adds important depth to the squad.
His batting average of 24.71 in English Tests also adds a cushion to India’s fragile lower middle order—especially important when playing five bowlers.
In away series, India has historically struggled with tail-end resistance, and Thakur’s counter-attacking style could provide a psychological edge.
Panesar’s inclusion of Thakur in his list isn’t just tactical—it’s strategic. In a five-Test series where injuries and fatigue are inevitable, a multi-dimensional player like Thakur becomes invaluable.
A New Generation for India in Test Cricket
This series comes at a time when India is transitioning. With stalwarts like Cheteshwar Pujara and Ajinkya Rahane likely out of the picture, the onus is on the new generation to step up.
The likes of Yashasvi Jaiswal, Shubman Gill, and now potentially Sai Sudharsan, represent the future.
What makes Sudharsan’s possible debut more intriguing is the context. England is playing an aggressive brand of cricket under Ben Stokes and Brendon McCullum—Bazball.
India will need batters who can not just survive, but respond with equal intent. Sudharsan’s composure and recent white-ball dominance suggest he could do just that.
The team management, led by Rahul Dravid and Rohit Sharma, will have decisions to make. Do they trust experience, or gamble on a talent who seems ready but untested? Panesar’s vote of confidence could influence public and perhaps even internal perception.
Can Sudharsan and Thakur Make a Lasting Impact?
The five-Test series will test India’s depth like never before. With matches spread across iconic venues—Leeds, Lord’s, Old Trafford, Edgbaston, and The Oval—the challenge is both mental and physical.
If Sudharsan debuts, his performance could dictate India’s batting fortunes. A solid showing in English conditions is often seen as a badge of honor for subcontinent players. If he clicks, India might have found their next batting mainstay.
For Thakur, the series offers redemption and reaffirmation. After being in and out of the Test squad, this tour could cement his role as the ideal seam-bowling all-rounder India has long searched for.
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Monty Panesar’s Prescription
“Express Yourself, Don’t Retreat Into a Shell”
Monty Panesar, who faced several Indian batters during his England career, knows what it takes to succeed in challenging overseas conditions. His advice to Nair was both technical and emotional.
“He needs to express himself, enjoy the stage, and show what he’s capable of,” Panesar emphasized. “I hope he doesn’t go into a shell because it’s a Test arena.”
There’s often a misconception that success in Test cricket abroad means ultra-defensive play. But as Panesar suggests, Nair’s success might come from trusting his instincts. He’s a naturally fluent stroke-maker—when he plays with freedom, he thrives.
India needs more than just batters who occupy the crease. With KL Rahul playing the anchor role, Nair could complement him by maintaining a steady tempo, rotating the strike, and cashing in on loose deliveries.
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Slotting Into No. 3 or No. 4: The Battle for Middle Order Supremacy
Where exactly Nair fits into the playing XI remains a question. The No. 3 and No. 4 slots are up for grabs with Pujara, Kohli, and Rahane no longer part of the red-ball scheme.
No. 3 requires patience, solid technique, and the mental fortitude to absorb pressure—traits Pujara embodied. No. 4, on the other hand, demands both skill and flair, a position Kohli made his own. Nair’s domestic success came batting at No. 4, which could be his natural home.
India might explore Yashasvi Jaiswal or Shubman Gill at No. 3, but if they want experience and recent form, Nair is a strong contender. Ultimately, consistency in the tour matches and first Test will determine his slot.
Why This Series Is More Than Just a Comeback
Karun Nair is not just returning to play a few Tests. This is potentially a career-defining stretch. With India looking to build a new red-ball core, especially in the middle order, a strong series could lock Nair in for years.
As Panesar put it: “If he has a good tour, he could cement his place for the next five years. He has the talent, temperament, and technique. It’s about belief now.”
This tour to England is more than just redemption; it’s a final frontier. A failure could close the door for good. A success, however, could be the beginning of a second innings most players only dream of.
Monty Panesar: Key to Success in England
Handling the Moving Ball
Whether it’s Nair, Rahul, or the youngsters, India’s success in England hinges on one thing—surviving the first 30 balls.
The Duke ball, combined with overcast conditions and swing bowlers like James Anderson and Ollie Robinson, will test technique and patience.
Karun Nair’s past issues against movement outside off stump are well-documented. That’s why Panesar’s emphasis on “technique and temperament” is valid. If Nair has worked on this flaw during his domestic resurgence, he has a real shot.
Rahul, on the other hand, has already passed that test once before. His ability to leave balls outside off and punish anything loose is his biggest strength. Expect him to be India’s first line of defense—particularly against the new ball.
India’s Middle Order: An Open Canvas After a Decade of Stability
For nearly ten years, the Indian middle order was a settled fortress—Pujara at 3, Kohli at 4, Rahane at 5. Now, that fortress has vanished, and it’s time for a new generation to lay bricks and mortar.
This England series will likely reveal India’s long-term vision. Will they go for a mix of experience (Rahul, Nair) and youth (Gill, Jaiswal), or usher in a bold, all-new middle order with high-risk, high-reward players?
Panesar’s words hint at a balance: experience is still crucial. He clearly sees Nair as someone who can bring maturity, while Rahul remains the pivot.
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