Washington Sundar feels growing up opening the batting came handy for him in Australia


Washington Sundar feels growing up opening the batting came handy for him in Australia

Washington Sundar

Washington Sundar after India won the trophy.

Luck favoured the net bowler Washington Sundar who made his debut in the fourth and the decider Test in Brisbane after a trail of injuries marred Team India. No doubt, the debutant played cricket beyond his age and showed composure both with bat and ball.

The 21-year-old played the heroics- a 123-run partnership with Shardul Thakur on Day 3 at the Gabba and scalped four wickets. His maiden dismissal included Steve Smith’s wicket.

“Definitely, the fact that I have grown up opening the batting was very helpful as I was more confident when the new ball was taken. It helped me with my belief and I had the skill set in place as well. I wanted to just play to the merit of the ball. I’m glad I was able to get runs and enjoyed batting in those conditions,” Sundar told TOI on Monday.

During his learning days, Sundar primarily opened the batting. He aims to grab the same position in Team India.

“It will be a blessing to open the batting for India. Whatever role I’m given, I’d love to contribute to the team’s success,” he said.

Sundar worked on his fitness

Washington Sundar after hitting his maiden half-century.

“During the first three Tests, I worked a lot on my fitness. It was a great experience to play on Australian soil. The more you play, the more you understand the pitches and get to know the options that you can use to be successful. It was an amazing opportunity for me to prepare on those pitches and get good exposure,” the Tamil Nadu all-rounder said.

“It’s a little difficult, and you’ve to keep your fitness levels up as well, but the process is fun. My passion is playing cricket, so I’d do anything to get better in this game in all aspects.”

Ahead of India vs England series that starts on February 5, Sundar said, “It will be very special if I make my home debut at Chepauk. My family watching the game would have been a dream, but I am really looking forward to the series.”

Also read: ‘If I could have played half an hour or one hour more, we could have won the match,’ says Rishabh Pant