Manav Suthar’s debut showed that he can be a serious contender for the Test: Sunil Gavaskar

Legendary Indian batsman Sunil Gavaskar believes debutant spinner Manav Suthar has shown enough promise to become a serious contender for a regular place in the Indian Test side after an impressive all-round display against Afghanistan.

The young left-arm spinner played a key role in India taking firm control of the one-off Test, returning figures of 3 for 21 after contributing valuable 28 runs lower down the order.

His disciplined bowling helped reduce Afghanistan to 113 for five in response to India’s formidable first innings total of 564 for eight declared at the close of play on Day 2.

Gavaskar was particularly impressed with Suthar’s composure and efficiency in both departments and said the youngster had shown qualities that could serve him well at the highest level.

“What stood out was not just his bowling but also the confidence he showed with the bat, especially the way he used his feet and looked comfortable at the crease,” Gavaskar told JioHotstar.

IND vs AFG Highlights: One-off Test Day 2

“He was extremely accurate with the ball and consistently put the batsmen under pressure. There was some help from the surface which he used well, but the real test for any spinner comes on flatter pitches where more variety and adaptability is required.”

While acknowledging that tougher challenges lie ahead, Gavaskar felt that Suthar had made a very encouraging start to his Test career.

“Having said that, it was a very encouraging debut and he showed the qualities of a strong contender at Test level,” he added.

Former England spinner Graeme Swann also praised Suthar’s maturity and tactical awareness, noting how quickly the debutant had settled into the competition.

“Manav Suthar’s performance was remarkable as he looked completely in control from the first ball of his Test career,” said Swann.

“Nerves are inevitable for any budding spinner, but he immediately found the right areas, creating excellent spin on the ball and extracting both dive and turn.”

Swann highlighted Suthar’s ability to adapt his approach during a spell as one of the standout aspects of his performance.

“What impressed me the most was his ability to adapt as his spell progressed. Initially he was attacking around the off-stump line, but he quickly recognized the amount of pull available and adjusted his line straighter, forcing the batsmen to play more often.

“His length control throughout the spell was excellent and that tactical adjustment played a key role in creating goal-scoring opportunities. Apart from the goals, it was the awareness, composure and consistency he displayed.”

Gavaskar also reserved praise for fast bowler Prasidh Krishna, who took two wickets by adjusting his length to suit the conditions.

“Prasidh Krishna showed excellent awareness and adaptability in the way he approached his spell,” Gavaskar said.

“As a fast bowler, the natural instinct is often to operate with shorter length and use bounce to trouble batsmen, but he recognized the conditions and adapted.

“By pitching the ball much more fully, he was able to generate movement back into the lefties and create real scoring opportunities.”

Meanwhile, Gavaskar praised Afghanistan batsman Rahmat Shah for showing the patience and resilience needed in Test cricket. Shah remained unbeaten on 43 and helped Afghanistan avoid a complete collapse.

“Rahman Shah’s innings was very impressive as it reflected the mindset and discipline needed to succeed in Test cricket,” Gavaskar said.

“When your team has spent a long time in the field after conceding a big total, the aim as a batsman is to respond by taking the wicket and making the opposition work just as hard.

“He showed exactly that attitude, showed patience, resilience and a willingness to spend time in the crease.”

With India firmly at the top and Suthar making an immediate impact on debut, the young spinner has given the selectors plenty to think about as the race for a place in the Indian Test squad continues.

– The end

Issued by:

Saurabh Kumar

Published on:

07 Jun 2026 20:19 IST