Washington Sundar continues to prove his value on the cricket field, showcasing resilience and precision that helps his team in pivotal moments. Known for his subtle spin and ability to contribute in crucial situations, Sundar has earned the respect of various coaches, including Ravi Shastri, Rahul Dravid, and current coach Gautam Gambhir. They have consistently turned to him for his all-round capabilities, especially on challenging pitches like Lord’s.
In a recent match, Sundar faced formidable opponents such as Joe Root, Jamie Smith, and Ben Stokes—all potential threats on the tricky Lord’s track. Displaying remarkable skill, he clean bowled each of these test batsmen, leading to England’s collapse as they were bowled out for 192 runs. Sundar’s figures of 4/22 emphasized his effectiveness, and while he narrowly missed out on making the honour’s board at Lord’s, his performance was still highly esteemed within the Indian dressing room.
Sundar’s unique bowling style, which relies more on accuracy than excessive turn, has enabled him to shine where others may falter. This was particularly evident against Smith, where Sundar’s skillful variations in spin and bounce left the batsman unable to connect properly. His ability to control the game, including breaking down the defenses of established batsmen, has made him an invaluable asset.
Despite India’s rocky start in their chase of 193 runs, Sundar’s contributions with both bat and ball position him as a critical player for his team’s prospects. With the weight of expectations resting on his shoulders alongside all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja and the injured Rishabh Pant, Sundar has the potential to lead India to victory on a notable stage like Lord’s.
This match encapsulates a hopeful narrative for Sundar, often seen as the underdog or “nearly man” of Indian cricket. His journey reflects the struggles and triumphs that come with the sport, and perhaps this outing at Lord’s will be the turning point he has been waiting for, solidifying his place in the cricketing world while inspiring those around him.