Manav Suthar, albeit a left-arm spinner, has already shown signs of filling the role of the Indian lead spinner in place of Ravichandran Ashwin. The 24-year-old has been quite magnificent with his accuracy, and the consistent pace at which he bowls has troubled batters.

Former Indian cricketer Cheteshwar Pujara advised the young spinner to avoid altering his game to play in the Indian Premier League.

“Try to preserve him. We have had this discussion in the past that, yes, all the young players might want to play the shorter format, but India should be looking to preserve him for the Test format. Yes, he might want to play the IPL, but don’t go there. I mean, yes, if he gets the opportunity to play the IPL, that’s fine, but don’t change your strength,” Pujara said on Sony Sports Network.

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However, Pujara also said that Suthar would not have to change his game a lot even if he wants to play the shorter version of the game.

“I think he doesn’t need to change his bowling much. Just when it comes to white-ball cricket, you need to have that flatter trajectory, and I don’t mind him playing in the IPL. If he plays in the IPL, if he’s successful in the IPL, that is fine, but don’t change your strength,” he added.

Modern finger spinners who survive in the shortest format tend to bowl quicker and flatter, losing their ability to get guile in the air.

“For someone like Manav Suthar, who is flighting the ball, who is willing to go a little slower, when it comes to red-ball cricket, you don’t need to change that. Don’t change yourself just for the IPL. I can understand, but don’t change your natural ability, which is to flight the ball,” said Pujara.

Suthar has already picked up 17 wickets from two games.