'Don't replace Virat, make your own mark', Alec Stewart's advice to Sai Sudarshan

The five-Test series in England can prove to be a big opportunity for India's young batsman Sai Sudarshan. Sudarshan, who was selected in the Test team for the first time, played county cricket to prove himself in English conditions and performed brilliantly for Surrey.

Surrey's director of cricket and former England wicketkeeper Alec Stewart is heavily influenced by Sudarshan. He said that when Sudarshan returned to India, he also took some Dukes balls with him so that his practice remained the same as in England. "I didn't take money from them, I gave it for free," Stewart said with a laugh. But it shows that Sai is pre-minded and has a sense of humour in his hard work. ”

Now that Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma have retired from Test cricket, the Indian team is looking for new leaders and match-winners. There is an attempt to fit Sai in this place, but Alec Stewart said one important thing. "SAI should not think that he is replacing Virat. There can be no one like Virat. His focus should only be on playing at his best form. ”

In the five matches he played for Surrey, Sai scored 281 runs, including a century. Alec Stewart compared him to Kane Williamson, saying that Sai plays the ball very late, which is important for playing in England. "He plays the ball under his eyes, which reduces the chances of a mistake. Even if there is an edge, the ball does not go to the slip. ”

In IPL 2025, Sai Sudarshan was the highest run-scorer for Gujarat Titans and won the Orange Cap. Now in the intra-squad match starting on June 13, he is once again going to prepare himself for the Test team.

If India wants success in England, then a thoughtful player like Sai Sudarshan can be very useful.