New Delhi, Oct 10 (NationPress) India batsman Sai Sudharsan expressed that the team aims to bat for an extended period to achieve a formidable score against the West Indies during the second Test at the Arun Jaitley Stadium on Friday.

With Yashasvi Jaiswal scoring an impressive 173 not out and Sudharsan contributing 87 runs, India concluded the first day at 318/2. Aspiring for a substantial total, Sudharsan indicated that the strategy is to bat once and accumulate a significant first innings score to compel the visitors to bat twice, a tactic that secured victory in the first Test held in Ahmedabad.

“Our ideal scenario is to bat just once; we aim to bat as long as necessary to achieve the best score possible. We aren't fixated on a specific target, but the goal is to make the West Indies face the challenge of batting twice,” he remarked on JioHotstar.

Discussing his composed approach and batting strategy, Sudharsan emphasized his determination to prolong his innings.

“I wasn't preoccupied with the pressure or the significance of the match. Following a successful India A series, my focus remained solely on enhancing my innings. I aimed to stay calm and avoid getting overwhelmed by the occasion. It was a very composed innings for me. Before the match, I resolved to take my time and let the game unfold naturally instead of forcing the issue. Partnering with Jaiswal was incredible; his ability to score runs even from well-delivered balls is fascinating to witness from the other end.”

On the influence of Shubman Gill, Sudharsan commented, “Shubman has provided clear role clarity, and what I admire most is his unwavering belief in coming back stronger, converting starts into big centuries, and contributing to the team's success. Observing him closely reveals the conviction he plays with. I believe that self-belief is a critical quality I must emulate.”