Can Washington Sundar Emerge as India's Leading Allrounder?
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Synopsis
Discover why Ravi Shastri believes Washington Sundar is destined to become India's premier all-rounder in Test cricket. His journey from a remarkable debut to potential greatness is worth exploring.
Key Takeaways
- Ravi Shastri strongly supports Washington Sundar.
- Sundar has played 11 Tests, scoring a total of 545 runs.
- He has demonstrated his potential as a genuine all-rounder.
- Impressive performances in the England Test series.
- Shastri believes Sundar can thrive in both Indian and overseas conditions.
New Delhi, July 22 (NationPress) Former India head coach Ravi Shastri has expressed his unwavering support for Washington Sundar following the third Test at Lord’s, praising the young cricketer’s all-around skills. Shastri conveyed his belief that Sundar has the potential to evolve into a genuine all-rounder for India in the realm of Test cricket.
Sundar, who made a remarkable Test debut during India’s historic victory at the Gabba in 2021 under Shastri's guidance, has had limited opportunities in red-ball cricket since then. He has played only 11 Tests to date, accumulating 545 runs and taking 30 wickets.
In his four matches during the current England Test series, Sundar has scored 42, 12 not out, 23, and 0, adding five wickets to his tally.
"I have always admired Washington. The moment I saw him on day one, I declared he's the man. He can be a true all-rounder for India for many years to come," Shastri stated on The ICC Review.
At just 25 years old, Shastri believes Sundar should have participated in more Test matches. He can be exceptionally effective in Indian conditions, particularly on turning tracks, as demonstrated during New Zealand's tour of India in 2024, where he emerged as the joint top wicket-taker with 16 wickets across four innings, outperforming several senior spinners.
During his Test debut at the Gabba in 2021, amidst a slew of injuries, Shastri placed his faith in the young all-rounder, who responded with an impressive 62 in his inaugural innings, significantly contributing to India’s historic win. He followed this with unbeaten scores of 85 and 96 in the home series against England.
"He's a naturally gifted batsman. He's not a typical number 8. He can easily find himself batting at 6 in the lineup soon," Shastri added.
Shastri also endorsed Sundar's prospects in foreign conditions, highlighting his strength, precision, and capacity to bowl extended spells.
In the third Test of the England series at Lord’s, Sundar showcased his skills despite a narrow loss to England. In the second innings, his exceptional figures of 4-22 put India in a favorable position, claiming the vital wickets of Joe Root, Ben Stokes, and Jamie Smith.
"Once he gains confidence, I believe he will continually improve. Even overseas, he possesses the drift, pace, finger strength, and fitness to handle long spells and control when necessary," Shastri concluded.
Point of View
It is my perspective that Washington Sundar embodies the future of Indian cricket. His skills as an all-rounder, combined with his potential for growth, make him a key player to watch in the coming years. His journey reflects the essence of perseverance and talent, and we stand firmly behind him as he seeks to make his mark on the international stage.
NationPress
22/07/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What did Ravi Shastri say about Washington Sundar?
Ravi Shastri praised Washington Sundar for his all-round abilities and expressed confidence in his potential to become a genuine all-rounder for India in Test cricket.
How many Tests has Washington Sundar played?
Washington Sundar has played 11 Tests so far, scoring 545 runs and taking 30 wickets.
What are Sundar's performances in the ongoing England Test series?
In the ongoing England Test series, Sundar scored 42, 12 not out, 23, and 0, along with taking five wickets.
What were Sundar's contributions during his debut at the Gabba?
During his debut at the Gabba, Sundar scored 62 runs in his first innings, significantly helping India achieve a historic victory.
What does Shastri believe about Sundar's batting position?
Shastri believes Sundar is a naturally talented batsman who can soon bat at the number 6 position in the lineup.
