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No Niggle, Purely A Match-up-based Decision: GTs Assistant Coach Parthiv On Washingtons Limited Role In IPL 2026

New Delhi: Gujarat Titans assistant coach Pathiv Patel has thrown weight behind Washington Sundar despite his limited bowling opportunities this season, stressing that tactical factors, rather than fitness concerns, are shaping his role. The all-rounder has had a fluctuating run in recent years, particularly with the Impact Player rule allowing teams to lean towards specialists. Often shuffled up and down the batting order, Sundar has struggled to build consistency, managing modest returns with the bat across seasons. However, this year, Gujarat Titans have shown greater faith in him by slotting him in the top four, a move aimed at giving him stability and clarity in his role. Parthiv, the teams assistant coach, clarified that Sundars reduced bowling workload is purely a tactical call. Theres no niggle. Washington Sundar is bowling really well. Its purely a conditions and match-up-based decision. On a surface like Ahmedabad, where there isnt much turn, it becomes difficult to use him effectively. If there were more left-handers at the crease, we would have definitely gone to him. Its just about finding the right situation to bring him into the game, he told JioStar. Parthiv also downplayed any concerns around the teams middle order, which has seen limited game time due to the top-orders dominance Theres no niggle. Washington Sundar is bowling really well. Its purely a conditions and match-up-based decision. On a surface like Ahmedabad, where there isnt much turn, it becomes difficult to use him effectively. If there were more left-handers at the crease, we would have definitely gone to him. Its just about finding the right situation to bring him into the game, he told JioStar. Also Read: Live Cricket Score With defined roles and a strong top-order strategy, Gujarat Titans appear focused on maintaining balance, even if it means some players have to wait longer for their opportunities. They have been on a three-match winning streak and will look to extend it when they face Mumbai Indians next on Monday. Article Source: IANS