New Delhi, Dec 16 (NationPress) Parthiv Patel, the assistant coach for Gujarat Titans (GT), has emphasized that Washington Sundar, the off-spin bowling all-rounder, was never on the table for a trade to any other franchise before the IPL 2026. Patel underlined Sundar's adaptability, highlighting his ability to fit into various spots in the batting lineup while also contributing significantly with the ball.

As the retention phase for the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 approached, there were speculations about Sundar possibly being traded to Chennai Super Kings (CSK) from GT, but these rumors never came to fruition.

“In our discussions, we did not even consider trading Washington Sundar, nor did we entertain any inquiries. This was never a point of contention. Given how well Sundar has performed for India over the past year, whether in Test matches or other formats, his versatility is invaluable,” Patel remarked during a virtual press conference following the auction in Abu Dhabi.

Sundar was acquired by the Gujarat Titans for Rs 3.2 crore last season and has had limited playing time recently due to the ‘Impact Player’ rule, participating in only six matches this year. However, his impressive innings of 49 runs against Sunrisers Hyderabad showcased his exceptional batting talent.

With Sundar's reputation rising due to strong performances for India across formats, GT is relying on his flexibility to fill the number four batting position, supporting a formidable top three consisting of Shubman Gill, B Sai Sudharsan, and Jos Buttler, particularly after trading Sherfane Rutherford to Mumbai Indians.

Patel also discussed the importance of adaptability in the middle order, indicating that team selections would depend on the playing conditions, weighing options among Sundar, Glenn Phillips, and the newly acquired Tom Banton. “When we assemble a team, we ensure that each player can seamlessly integrate into our setup and is prepared to play,” he noted.

“The selection will be influenced by pitch conditions and our observations during practice sessions. Whether it's Sundar, Phillips, or Banton, all players remain in contention. We are fortunate to have such versatile players who can adapt to any batting position,” he added.

Surprisingly, England's wicketkeeper-batter Jamie Smith went unsold at the auction, and Patel explained that they chose Banton due to his greater experience in T20 cricket for England.

“It's not that we lacked interest in Smith. Both players possess similar skill sets, but Banton's experience, having previously played in the IPL and performing well in international cricket, made him the preferred choice,” he elaborated.

Regarding the form of lower-order hitters Rahul Tewatia and Shahrukh Khan, Patel expressed optimism as IPL 2026 approaches. Tewatia has been sidelined due to a shoulder injury requiring surgery, while Shahrukh had a disappointing run in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy league stage in Ahmedabad, GT’s home ground for IPL.

“March is three months away, and we believe both Shahrukh Khan and Rahul Tewatia are incredibly valuable assets to our team. Last year, Tewatia won critical matches against Mumbai and Delhi, demonstrating his capabilities,” Patel concluded.