Ponting Criticises Gill and Gambhir for Creating 'Internal Pressure' on Sai Sudharsan

Former Australian captain Ricky Ponting has come out in strong support of young Indian batter Sai Sudharsan, following his disappointing golden duck in the second innings of the fourth Test against England in Manchester. Ponting believes the decision to drop Sudharsan earlier in the series created unnecessary pressure on the youngster and placed the blame squarely on India captain Shubman Gill and head coach Gautam Gambhir.

"INTERNAL PRESSURE A YOUNGSTER DOESN’T NEED" – PONTING

Ponting expressed surprise at the management's inconsistent backing of Sudharsan. The Tamil Nadu batter made his Test debut in the first match of the series but was dropped after scoring just 0 and 30. After Karun Nair failed to capitalise on his opportunities, Sudharsan was brought back into the XI for the fourth Test.

Despite returning under pressure, Sudharsan impressed with a resilient 61 off 151 deliveries in the first innings, becoming the first Indian No. 3 to score a fifty outside Asia since early 2022. However, his second innings ended in disappointment as he fell for a first-ball duck, shortly after England had piled on a massive 669.

Ponting pointed to the earlier omission as a key factor in Sudharsan’s failure.

> "It just creates internal pressure the kind a young player doesn’t need. Someone new to Test cricket shouldn't have to constantly look over their shoulder, wondering if they'll be dropped after one game," Ponting told Sky Sports.

> “That’s why I was really surprised they picked him for the first Test, then dropped him, and brought him back again just as suddenly.”

PONTING’S VOTE OF CONFIDENCE: “NO DOUBT HE’LL BE GOOD ENOUGH”

The World Cup-winning skipper emphasised the importance of stability and backing for emerging players. According to Ponting, young talents like Sudharsan require clear communication and confidence from both the captain and the coach.

> "For a young guy, that reassurance from your captain and coach makes a big difference a message like: ‘We’re backing you, and you’ll get a fair run.’ I have no doubt Sudharsan has the skill and mindset to succeed at this level," he added.

INDIA FIGHTS BACK: GILL AND RAHUL STEADY THE SHIP

Despite Sudharsan’s early dismissal in the second innings, India ended Day 4 of the Manchester Test on a strong note. Shubman Gill and KL Rahul showcased composure and class, guiding India to 174/2 at stumps. Gill remained unbeaten on 78, while Rahul was solid on 87 as they steered India toward safety on a challenging final day.

The pair’s stand brought much-needed stability to the Indian innings after England's massive total, keeping India’s hopes alive heading into Day 5.