The Quiet Confidence of Washington Sundar: A Rising Star in Indian Cricket
In the bustling world of Indian cricket’s T20 matches, there’s a quiet confidence that sets Washington Sundar apart. Unlike the exaggerated celebrations and visible aggression often seen in the sport, Sundar’s approach is marked by a calm assurance that his skills, planning, and adaptability will ultimately shine through. This unique trait has made him a standout performer, especially in the recent IND vs AUS series.
Over the past seasons, Sundar’s quiet confidence has grown louder, transforming him into one of India’s most versatile T20 players. As a bowler, he now dissects batters with calculated precision, using a change of angle, pace variation, and clever tactics to keep them guessing. As a batter, he has developed a more refined approach, relying on timing and clarity of thought rather than brute force to clear the ropes.
Initially, Sundar was often typecast as a Powerplay specialist, tasked with containing runs in the first six overs. However, today’s Sundar is a more well-rounded player, excelling with both his bowling and batting. His bowling showcases deception, inviting batters to hit where they shouldn’t, while his batting displays clean striking and the ability to steer chases and finish innings.
The twin match-winning performances against Australia in Hobart and the Gold Coast further solidified Sundar’s evolution. In Hobart, he remained not out on 49 runs off 23 balls, and in the Gold Coast, he delivered a record-breaking 3/3 spell in just eight balls. These achievements highlight his improved ability to tackle short-pitched deliveries and his increased intent against pace bowlers.
Sundar’s fearless approach, even under pressure, is rooted in a clear and purposeful mindset. He approaches each practice session with a specific goal in mind, striving to achieve it. This mindset, as he explains, is what makes playing at the highest level so exciting, as it involves solving different challenges and finding creative solutions.
Washington Sundar’s journey continues to inspire, showcasing that quiet confidence and adaptability can be powerful assets in the world of cricket. His performances have not only solidified his place in the Indian team but have also sparked discussions about the potential of a more calculated and refined approach to the game.