IS WASHINGTON SUNDAR THE NEXT BIG THING IN INDIAN CRICKET?

To understand Sundar's rise, it is worth revisiting his early days. He burst onto the scene during the 2017-18 domestic season, impressing with his control and temperament. But it was in 2021 that he truly made the...

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Indian cricket has never had a shortage of prodigies, but only a handful transform promise into sustained impact across formats. In the recently concluded Anderson Tendulkar Trophy between India and England, one name that emerged not just as a contributor but as a cornerstone was Washington Sundar. His performances with the bat and ball reignited conversations around his long-term role in Indian cricket. The big question is: Is Washington Sundar the next big thing in Indian cricket across formats?

WALKING INTO BIG SHOES

It is not easy being a Tamil Nadu cricketer in the post-Ashwin era. Especially when you're a spin bowling all-rounder walking into a Test side after the retirement of legends like Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, and Ravichandran Ashwin. The leadership group had changed too, with Shubman Gill leading a young Indian side trying to find its rhythm. In this transition phase, Washington Sundar did not just fill a void. He created a space that looked tailor-made for him.

Coming into the series after the first Test, Sundar had an immediate impact. The pressure was massive. India had lost the opening match. The spin attack lacked bite. The middle order seemed fragile. But Sundar responded with maturity far beyond his age. In the fourth Test, with India trailing and staring down the barrel, Washington produced a match-saving century. Not only did it help India avoid defeat, but it also showcased a composure that is rare even among seasoned players. In the next game, he followed it up with a crisp fifty that proved decisive in levelling the series. This was not just a performance. It was a statement.

THE GABBA CALLING CARD