India's Spin Puzzle: Sundar or Yadav for Perth ODI Opener

As India prepare to face Australia in the first ODI of the three-match series on October 19, the team management faces a selection conundrum, particularly in the bowling department. While the majority of the bowling unit, including Arshdeep Singh, Mohammed Siraj, and Axar Patel, are set to feature in the playing XI, there is competition for the remaining spots.

One of the key decisions revolves around the second spinner, with Washington Sundar and Kuldeep Yadav vying for the role. Both players recently excelled in the home Test series against the West Indies, but the conditions in Perth are likely to favor the inclusion of an all-rounder over a specialist spinner.

India's preference for all-rounders in their playing XI, regardless of format or conditions, has become a priority. With Axar Patel and Nitish Kumar Reddy already in the setup, the team is likely to lean towards Washington Sundar over Kuldeep Yadav for the second spinner spot. Sundar's ability to contribute with the bat at No. 8 and his bowling style that suits the fast and bouncy conditions in Australia give him the edge.

Kuldeep Yadav's past ODI record in Australia, where he has taken just three wickets at an average of 59 and an economy rate of 5.90 in three matches, also works against him. Sundar, on the other hand, has shown promise in overseas conditions, taking two wickets at an economy of 4.17 in four matches outside the subcontinent.

Ultimately, India's decision will be based on the need to balance their bowling attack and maintain a strong batting lineup, even at the cost of a genuine wicket-taking option in the middle overs. With the conditions in Perth favoring all-rounders, Washington Sundar appears to be the more suitable choice for the first ODI against Australia.