Washington Sundar

IND
IND
All-Rounder
All-Rounder
Washington Sundar

Player Bio

At just 22 years of age, Washington Sundar has already established himself as a prominent figure in international cricket. With his impressive all-round skills, he has become an integral part of the Indian cricket team. Sundar's ability to contribute with both bat and ball makes him a valuable asset in any format of the game.

Early Life and Background

Born on October 5, 1999, in Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India, Washington Sundar was named after his father's mentor, Mr P.D. Washington, as a mark of gratitude for his support in nurturing his father's cricketing dreams. From a young age, Sundar showed immense potential and passion for the game.

Growing up in Chennai, a city known for its love for cricket, Sundar was surrounded by the sport from an early age. His father played cricket at the state level and reached the Tamil Nadu Ranji probables but could not make it into the final squad. Inspired by his father's love for the game, young Sundar started playing cricket at the tender age of four or five.

Sundar received his early education from St. Bede's Anglo Indian Higher Secondary School while honing his cricketing skills under the guidance of former Indian off-spinner M Venkataramana. Initially considered more of a batsman, he transitioned into becoming an off-spinner following in the footsteps of another illustrious cricketer from Tamil Nadu – Ravichandran Ashwin.

Rise to Prominence

Sundar began making waves in domestic cricket representing Tamil Nadu before getting noticed on the national stage. He made his first-class debut for Tamil Nadu during the 2016-17 Ranji Trophy season and showcased glimpses of his talent with both bat and ball.

His breakthrough, however, came in the 2016 Under-19 World Cup where he represented India. Sundar played a crucial role in India's campaign, impressing with his off-spin bowling and providing valuable contributions with the bat. His performances caught the attention of cricket pundits and selectors alike.

The young all-rounder's success at the U-19 level led to a call-up for the Rising Pune Supergiant (RPS) in the 2017 Indian Premier League (IPL). He was brought in as a replacement for the injured Ravichandran Ashwin and made an immediate impact. Sundar showcased his ability to bowl tight lines and lengths while maintaining an impressive economy rate. His performance helped RPS reach the IPL final that year.

Sundar's consistent performances earned him a spot in the Indian T20I team later that year. He made his international debut against Sri Lanka on December 13, 2017, becoming the youngest player to debut for India in T20Is at just 18 years and 80 days old.

Cricketing Career

Washington Sundar's cricketing career has been marked by versatility and excellence across formats. Primarily known as an off-spinner, he has made significant contributions with both bat and ball.

In Test cricket, Sundar unexpectedly made his debut in the final match of India's historic 2020-21 tour of Australia at The Gabba. Filling in for an injured Ravindra Jadeja, he made an immediate impact by dismissing one of Australia's best batsmen, Steve Smith, as his first Test wicket. But it was not just his bowling prowess that shone through; Sundar also displayed great composure with the bat during India's second innings. He scored a brilliant half-century on debut, becoming only the third Indian to achieve this feat in Australia. His performance played a pivotal role in India's victory in that match.

Sundar's skills have also been on display in One Day Internationals (ODIs) and Twenty20 Internationals (T20Is), where he has made valuable contributions. He was part of the Indian squad for the 2018 Nidahas Trophy, a tri-nation T20I series held in Sri Lanka. Sundar's consistent performances with both bat and ball earned him the Player of the Series award.

Known for his ability to contain runs and maintain a good economy rate, Sundar has often been called upon to bowl during the powerplay overs. His disciplined bowling style makes it difficult for batsmen to score freely against him. Additionally, he possesses the ability to pick up crucial wickets at crucial moments.

With the bat, Sundar has displayed a calm and composed approach. He can contribute valuable runs lower down the order and has shown an aptitude for building partnerships with established batsmen.

Despite facing challenges in securing a constant spot in some franchise teams, Sundar's talent cannot be understated. His performance at the domestic level, as well as his contributions to the national team, highlight his potential as one of India's promising all-rounders.

Major Tournaments and Series

Washington Sundar has made significant contributions in various major tournaments and series throughout his career, showcasing his skills on the big stage. Let's take a closer look at some of these notable performances.

Sundar first represented India in the Under-19 World Cup in 2016. This tournament provided him with valuable exposure and experience at a young age. Although India did not win the tournament, Sundar played a crucial role with both bat and ball, making important contributions.

In the Indian Premier League (IPL), Sundar has been a consistent performer for his franchise teams. He made his IPL debut for Rising Pune Supergiant in 2017, replacing the injured Ravichandran Ashwin. Sundar's ability to contain runs and take wickets immediately caught the attention of cricket enthusiasts. In the same year, he played a vital role in helping Rising Pune Supergiant reach the final with his economical bowling.

Sundar's excellent performances continued in subsequent IPL seasons as well. His ability to adapt to different match situations and deliver under pressure has made him an asset for any team he represents. His statistics in the IPL speak for themselves, highlighting his consistency and impact on matches.

Moving beyond domestic leagues, Sundar has also featured prominently in international tournaments. His inclusion in India's squad for the Nidahas Trophy in 2018 proved to be a game-changer for the team. Sundar showcased exceptional skills with both bat and ball throughout the tournament, earning him the title of player of the series.

Moreover, Sundar's participation in ICC tournaments has further solidified his reputation as a reliable all-rounder. While he is yet to feature extensively on the global stage, there is no doubt that he possesses the immense potential to become a key player for India in future World Cups.

Playing Role and Skills

Washington Sundar's primary role in the team is that of an off-spinner. His ability to bowl with great discipline and maintain a good economy rate has made him a valuable asset in limited-overs cricket. Sundar's accuracy and skill in spinning the ball have troubled many batsmen, leading to breakthroughs for his team.

In addition to his bowling prowess, Sundar is also a capable left-handed batsman. He possesses excellent technique and composure at the crease, making him a reliable middle-order option. Sundar has the ability to anchor innings as well as provide quick runs when required.

One of Sundar's main strengths is his tactical awareness. He understands match situations well and adjusts his style of play accordingly. Whether it's soaking up pressure during a run chase or attacking the opposition from the outset, Sundar knows how to adapt his game to benefit the team.

While he is known for his economical bowling, Sundar has shown that he can contribute with both bat and ball in crucial moments. His ability to perform under pressure has earned him recognition within the cricketing world.

Like any cricketer, Sundar does have some areas that he can work on. As a batsman, he could focus on converting starts into big scores more consistently. Additionally, further enhancing his variations as a bowler would make him an even more potent threat in different conditions.

Overall, Washington Sundar's playing skills display immense promise and potential for growth. With his ability to contribute effectively with both bat and ball, he adds great value to any team he represents.

Personality and Off-the-Field Persona

Off the field, Washington Sundar carries himself with humility and grace. It is evident that he maintains a focused approach towards cricket.

Sundar's calm and composed demeanour has earned him praise from teammates and coaches alike. He is known for his ability to remain unfazed by pressure situations, showcasing maturity beyond his years.

As a young cricketer, Sundar has already displayed leadership qualities. He captained the Indian team in the Under-19 World Cup, demonstrating his ability to lead by example and make crucial decisions on the field.

While he may not have been involved in any major controversies or off-field incidents, Sundar's dedication and commitment to the sport have helped him build a positive public image. His focus on honing his skills and delivering consistent performances has made him a respected figure in Indian cricket.

In terms of brand endorsements and sponsorships, Sundar has managed to secure several deals throughout his career. However, he remains grounded and focused on his game, letting his performances do the talking.

Overall, Washington Sundar's personality reflects professionalism, humility, and a strong work ethic. As he continues to evolve as a cricketer, it will be intriguing to see how he further establishes himself both on and off the field.

Legacy and Impact

Washington Sundar has made a significant impact on the game of cricket, both with his all-around skills and disciplined approach. His ability to perform under pressure and contribute in crucial moments has inspired many young cricketers.

One aspect that stands out in Sundar's career is his bowling style, which emphasises discipline and containment. He has set an example for other spinners with his ability to maintain a tight economy rate and control the flow of runs. His consistency in limiting opposition batsmen's scoring options has made him a valuable asset in limited-overs cricket.

Sundar's performances have also left a mark on the Indian Premier League (IPL). In IPL 2017, he played a crucial role in helping Rising Pune Supergiant reach the final with his economical bowling and crucial wickets. This showcased his ability to thrive in high-pressure situations.

Additionally, Sundar's composure as a batsman has been commendable. He has shown the temperament to anchor an innings when required and accelerate when needed. This versatility makes him a valuable asset in various positions in the batting order.

Sundar's legacy extends beyond his individual performances. His work ethic, dedication, and sportsmanship have earned him respect from teammates, opponents, and fans alike. He serves as an inspiration for aspiring cricketers who look up to him as a role model for his disciplined approach towards the game.

Recognition and Awards

Washington Sundar's young career may not have seen many major awards or accolades yet, but his talent and potential are widely recognized within the cricketing fraternity.

As Sundar continues to grow as a player, it is expected that he will earn several accolades in the future through consistent performances across formats. His contributions as an all-rounder and his ability to deliver in high-pressure situations make him a strong contender for future recognition.

The Indian cricket board, BCCI, has also recognized Sundar's talent and potential by giving him opportunities at the international level. Being selected for the national squad at such a young age is a testament to the faith that the selectors have in his abilities.

In domestic cricket, Sundar has represented Tamil Nadu and made significant contributions to their success. He has received recognition at the state level for his consistent performances with both bat and ball.

As Sundar's career progresses, it is likely that he will add more accolades to his name. With his skillset and determination, he has the potential to become one of India's premier all-rounders and achieve greatness in the years to come.

Washington Sundar's journey in cricket has been nothing short of remarkable. From being a young boy with dreams of playing professional cricket to representing India on the international stage, he has overcome challenges and proven himself as a talented all-rounder.

Washington Sundar has already achieved great success at a young age, but there is still immense potential for growth. With his versatile skills, strong temperament, and determination to succeed, he has all the ingredients required to become one of Indian cricket's most treasured assets. As fans eagerly watch his career unfold, there is no doubt that Sundar will leave a lasting legacy in the world of cricket.

FAQs
What is Washington Sundar's current age?
Washington Sundar was born on October 5, 1999.
What is Washington Sundar's playing style?
Washington Sundar is primarily known for his off-spin bowling skills. He has the ability to generate turn and bounce from the pitch, making it challenging for batsmen to score freely against him. He is also a capable lower-order batsman who can contribute valuable runs when needed.
Which domestic teams has Washington Sundar played for?
Washington Sundar has represented various domestic teams in India. He has played for Tamil Nadu in domestic competitions like the Ranji Trophy and the Vijay Hazare Trophy. He has also been a part of IPL teams such as the Royal Challengers Bangalore.
What are Washington Sundar's notable achievements in his cricket career?
Washington Sundar has had several notable achievements in his cricket career. He made his international debut for India in 2017 and has since played in both Test matches and limited-overs formats. He has been a part of the Indian team that reached the finals of the ICC World Test Championship in 2021 and has also represented the country in ICC tournaments such as the T20 World Cup.
What are some of Washington Sundar's memorable performances in international cricket?
Washington Sundar has had several memorable performances in international cricket. One of his standout moments was during the Border-Gavaskar Trophy in 2020-2021, where he made crucial contributions with both bat and ball, including a half-century in the fourth Test match. He has also played important roles in limited-overs matches, both with his bowling and batting abilities.