Washington Sundar, a name that has been creating waves in the world of cricket, is fast becoming a prominent figure in the Indian cricket landscape. Known for his all-round abilities and calm demeanor under pressure, Sundar has been instrumental in several key victories for India across formats. This article delves into his journey, achievements, and what the future holds for this young cricketer.
Early Life and Career
Born on October 5, 1999, in Chennai, Tamil Nadu, Washington Sundar’s entry into cricket was inspired by his father, M. Sundar, who was a cricketer himself. Named after his father’s mentor, Washington, young Sundar showed prodigious talent from a young age. His early training under the guidance of his father laid a strong foundation for his cricketing career.
Domestic Cricket Breakthrough
Sundar made his first-class debut for Tamil Nadu in the 2016-17 Ranji Trophy. His impressive performances with both bat and ball quickly caught the attention of selectors. A left-handed batsman and a right-arm off-spinner, Sundar’s versatility made him a valuable asset in domestic cricket. His ability to contribute in multiple roles was evident as he consistently delivered match-winning performances.
IPL Stardom
The Indian Premier League (IPL) provided Sundar with the perfect platform to showcase his talents on a grand stage. He was picked up by Rising Pune Supergiant in 2017, and his performances in that season, especially in the playoffs, were pivotal in his team’s journey to the finals. Sundar’s economical bowling and knack for picking up crucial wickets made him a standout performer.
In subsequent seasons, he continued to shine for the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB). His ability to bowl in the powerplay, coupled with his handy batting lower down the order, made him a key player for the franchise. His performances in the IPL cemented his reputation as one of the most promising young cricketers in India.
International Debut and Impact
Washington Sundar’s international debut came in December 2017 in a T20I against Sri Lanka. His calm and composed performances in the shortest format soon earned him a spot in the ODI and Test squads. However, it was during the 2020-21 Border-Gavaskar Trophy in Australia that Sundar truly announced himself on the world stage.
In the fourth Test at the Gabba, Brisbane, Sundar was called up as an injury replacement. Despite the pressure of the situation, he displayed remarkable composure, scoring crucial runs and taking vital wickets. His 62-run partnership with Shardul Thakur in the first innings was instrumental in India securing a historic series win.
Strengths and Style of Play
Washington Sundar’s strengths lie in his versatility and adaptability. As a bowler, he relies on accuracy and subtle variations rather than sheer pace, making him highly effective in both white-ball and red-ball cricket. His ability to bowl in the powerplay in T20s and maintain tight lines in Tests showcases his cricketing acumen.
With the bat, Sundar is technically sound and possesses a wide range of strokes. His calmness under pressure and ability to anchor the innings or accelerate when needed make him a valuable middle-order batsman. This all-round ability allows the team management to utilize him in various roles, adding depth and balance to the side.
Future Prospects
At just 24 years old, Washington Sundar’s cricketing journey is just beginning. With his all-round capabilities, he is poised to become a mainstay in the Indian team across formats. His performances have already earned him accolades and respect from peers and cricketing legends alike.
As India looks to build a team for the future, Sundar’s role will be crucial. His experience in international cricket, combined with his consistent performances, positions him as a leader in the making. The upcoming years will likely see him take on more responsibilities and continue to grow as a cricketer.
Conclusion
Washington Sundar’s rise in Indian cricket is a testament to his talent, hard work, and determination. From his early days in Chennai to becoming a key player for India, his journey is an inspiring story for aspiring cricketers. As he continues to evolve and excel, the cricketing world eagerly watches the next chapter in the career of this remarkable young cricketer.
