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Sai Sudharsan's Test Debut Ends in Disappointment Against England

Sai Sudharsan's first Test match against England at Headingley was marked by disappointment as he was dismissed for a duck on just his fourth ball. Despite a promising start from the Indian team, Sudharsan fell victim to a well-planned trap set by England's captain Ben Stokes. The young batsman's dismissal shifted momentum back to England, highlighting the challenges of Test cricket. As he walked off the field with an empty scorecard, it signified the beginning of his learning journey in the format. Fans and commentators reacted to his dismissal, offering encouragement and insights into the pressures faced by debutants.
By Narendra Chaudhary | Jun 20, 2025, 18:48 IST
Sai Sudharsan's Test Debut Ends in Disappointment Against England

A Tough Start for Sai Sudharsan

In his inaugural Test match, India's young left-handed batsman Sai Sudharsan faced a challenging debut, falling for a duck after just four balls against England at Headingley. This dismissal took place just before lunch on the first day of the match, following a cautious yet promising start from the Indian side. England's strategic planning, led by captain Ben Stokes, was evident as they set a trap for the newcomer. Sudharsan's dismissal came as India was positioned at 92/2 going into the break.


Under overcast skies, the ball was seaming and bouncing unpredictably, prompting Stokes to seize the opportunity. Understanding that debutants often rush to score their first runs, he employed a leg-stump line and fortified the leg-side with fielders. A leg slip, short fine leg, and a leg gully were strategically placed to create pressure. On the fourth delivery to Sudharsan, Stokes bowled a full ball angled towards the batsman's body.


Attempting to play defensively, Sudharsan inadvertently edged the ball, resulting in a catch by wicketkeeper Jamie Smith, who made a spectacular dive to his right. This dismissal was a classic example of a well-executed plan rather than a reckless shot.


Sudharsan's introduction to Test cricket was marked by a personal touch, as he received his cap from Cheteshwar Pujara earlier that day. As he walked off the field with a blank scorecard, it signified not just a brief appearance but the beginning of his journey in red-ball cricket. This wicket shifted the momentum back to England at a crucial moment when India seemed to be settling in.


At lunch on Day 1, India stood at 92/2 after being invited to bat in challenging conditions. Openers Yashasvi Jaiswal and KL Rahul had formed a solid partnership of 91 runs, displaying discipline against a formidable English bowling attack. Jaiswal remained unbeaten on 42 from 74 balls, showcasing his confidence with eight well-timed boundaries.


Rahul also looked in good form with his 42 before being dismissed by Brydon Carse in the 25th over, edging a length delivery to Joe Root in the slips. Sudharsan entered the fray just after Rahul's dismissal, only to be dismissed for a duck on his very first delivery. Stokes had successfully ensnared him with a clever leg-side trap, leading to his catch by Smith.


Reactions to Sudharsan's Dismissal







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