Thuppakiya Pudinga Washi: Ashwin Hands Over the Baton to Sundar in True Thalapathy Vijay Fashion
Click to start listening
New Delhi, Dec 20 (NationPress) In light of the numerous tributes honoring Ravichandran Ashwin following his retirement from international cricket, he paid homage to fellow off-spin all-rounder Washington Sundar in a manner that felt like a significant moment of transition in Indian cricket.
On Wednesday, shortly after Ashwin declared his retirement following the third Test at the Gabba, which ended in a draw, Sundar shared a touching tribute on his social media. “More than just a teammate, you have been an inspiration, Ash anna. It’s been an honor to share the field and dressing room with you.”
“As a fellow resident of Tamil Nadu, I have grown up watching you from the close corners of Chepauk to playing against and alongside you. Every moment has been a privilege. The lessons, both on and off the field, are something I will cherish forever. Wishing you success and happiness in your future endeavors.”
In response, Ashwin posted on his X account on Friday, ‘Thuppakiya pudinga Washi!’ “The two minutes you spoke that night at the gathering was the best.” The opening line Ashwin used with Sundar is a well-known quote from Tamil superstar Vijay’s recent film, Greatest of All Time (G.O.A.T.), which was featured in a scene with actor Sivakarthikeyan.
Among the candidates to take on spin-bowling responsibilities for India in the post-Ashwin era, Sundar, also from Chennai, stands out as a direct successor. It’s widely acknowledged that Sundar is the favored choice for spin-bowling by the current Indian coaching staff.
For instance, Sundar was selected over Ashwin and Ravindra Jadeja for the initial Border-Gavaskar Trophy Test in Perth, where he secured two wickets in the second innings, scoring four and 29 runs with the bat, leading India to a 295-run victory.
To date, Sundar has taken 24 wickets and amassed 387 runs in his seven Test matches. With Ashwin’s retirement, the Indian team will rely on him and Jadeja to excel in the remaining two Tests of the series in Melbourne and Sydney, especially as the five-match series stands at 1-1.
