IND vs NZ: Washington Sundar’s Comeback Shines in Pune Test : In the second Test match between India vs New Zealand at Pune, Washington Sundar, the all-rounder made his mark in that game. Having been away from the longest format for about 3.5 years, it was Sundar’s breathtaking bowling performance(7/59). This proved that he is one of the players India envisions in the Test format. The performance was much needed to square the two-match series after losing the first test match.
A Vital Component of the Spin Attack for India
There was little success by the spin bowling of the Indian team in the first Test held in Bengaluru. This prompted the selectors to reintroduce Washington Sundar for the second Test in Pune. Washington Sundar’s ease of style, based on accuracy and control rather than sharp turns, was well suited to the Indian conditions.
His seven wickets in the match were the best bowling figures of his Test career. He formed a good record as an Indian bowler playing against New Zealand in recent times. Sundar’s ability to tame the left-handers from New Zealand and keep the pressure helped in elevating the spin attack of India.
Test records of Washington Sundar to date
The day Washington Sundar made his Test debut was in the 2021 Brisbane Test match, where he played a significant role in the team’s winning effort at the Gabba. He made a match-saving score of 62 runs and captured four wickets in that game. He emerged as an integral figure in India’s scheme of things in consequent overseas tours, but injuries and troubled by competition for places kept him away from the longest format.
Also Read: IND vs NZ 2nd Test: Day 1 Highlights, Washington Sundar Bagged 7 Wickets
Sundar’s Test Cricket Stats :
Test Matches: 5
Total Runs: 295
Batting Average: 42.14
Highest Score: 96*
Total Wickets: 16
Bowling Average: 23.81
Best Bowling: 7/59
Best Match Figure: 8/98 (including the previous best from Gabba Test, 2021).
The significance of Washington Sundar In Test cricket
Given he is barely 25 years old, Washington Sundar has gotten to a level where he possesses the confidence, capability, and skill level to perform in any format of the game. His bowling style consists of controlled lines and subtle changes in pace. This will make him fit well with the likes of Ravichandran Ashwin and Ravindra Jadeja. Since it appears Ashwin’s career is almost coming to an end, there is assurance with Sundar’s addition that the spin department of India’s future is in safe hands.
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He also bats left-handed. This allows India to have a top all-rounder lower down the order who can score crucial runs. His selection, for example, was important in the second Test against New Zealand. He was able to bolster the lower-order and clinical spinners like Jadeja and Axar Patel.
How Sundar Has Come In Good Form Engaging Plays
It is Washington Sundar’s diverse skill, composure, and ability to execute plans that have brought him fame. He is currently in a good place in the Indian Test team with hopes of cementing his spot for the Australia series scheduled in December. Keeping such a performance level in mind, Sundar very much has a chance to be an asset for the Indian team, especially in the spin bowling department.
