Washington Sundar was born on 5 October 1999 in Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India. His father, M. Sundar, was himself a passionate cricketer who strongly supported his son’s cricketing journey from a very young age. Interestingly, Washington was named after his father’s close friend, Mr. Washington, who had financially helped his father pursue cricket during his youth. This touching story behind his name makes Washington’s identity unique in the cricketing world. Growing up in Chennai, Washington was deeply influenced by the strong cricketing culture of Tamil Nadu, which played a big role in shaping his career.
Education and Early Cricketing Journey
Washington attended St. Bede’s Anglo Indian Higher Secondary School, a school well-known for producing talented cricketers. Initially, he began his career as a left-handed batsman but later transformed into an effective bowling all-rounder, focusing on off-spin while still maintaining his batting abilities. His natural talent and hard work helped him climb the junior cricketing ranks quickly, earning him spots in Tamil Nadu’s age-group teams and later in the domestic circuit.
Domestic Career
Washington made his first-class debut for Tamil Nadu in the 2016–17 Ranji Trophy at the age of just 17. His calm composure, accurate off-spin, and ability to bat in the top order made him stand out among his peers. He was also part of India’s 2016 Under-19 World Cup squad, where he delivered consistent performances. His domestic performances in both Ranji Trophy and List-A matches soon brought him into the limelight as a promising all-rounder for the future.
IPL Career
Washington Sundar’s breakthrough came in the Indian Premier League (IPL). He was signed by Rising Pune Supergiant (RPS) in 2017 as a replacement for Ravichandran Ashwin, who was injured. Sundar made an instant impact with his economical bowling and ability to take key wickets in the powerplay overs. In fact, he played a crucial role in RPS reaching the 2017 IPL final.
Later, he became an integral part of the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) setup, where his disciplined bowling in the powerplays and middle overs earned him recognition. He has since been regarded as one of the most reliable young all-rounders in the IPL.
International Career
Washington Sundar made his T20 International debut for India in December 2017 against Sri Lanka. His ability to control runs in the powerplay made him a valuable asset in the shortest format.
In ODIs, he debuted against Sri Lanka in December 2017 as well, showing his all-round abilities.
However, his most memorable moment came in Test cricket. He made his debut in January 2021 during the historic Border-Gavaskar Trophy in Australia. Playing at the Gabba, Sundar impressed the world with both bat and ball. He scored a crucial 62 in the first innings and partnered with Shardul Thakur to build a game-changing stand. With the ball, he picked up key wickets, including that of Steve Smith. His heroics contributed significantly to India’s historic series win in Australia.
Playing Style and Strengths
Washington Sundar is a bowling all-rounder, known for his disciplined off-spin and ability to bowl in high-pressure situations, especially during powerplays. His batting, though often underrated, is technically sound and has bailed India out on several occasions. He is calm under pressure, a quick learner, and adapts well to different formats of the game, making him a valuable utility player.
Personal Life
Despite his growing fame, Washington Sundar remains a humble and grounded individual. He shares a close bond with his family, particularly with his father who has been his constant guide and mentor. His sister, Shailaja, is also a cricketer. Off the field, Sundar is known to be quiet, disciplined, and focused entirely on his cricketing career.
Achievements and Records
- Youngest player to debut for Rising Pune Supergiant in IPL 2017.
- Played a key role in India’s Gabba Test victory in 2021 with both bat and ball.
- Consistently recognized as one of the most economical bowlers in T20 cricket.
- Represented India in all three formats at a very young age.
Conclusion
Washington Sundar’s journey from the streets of Chennai to becoming an all-format Indian cricketer is truly inspirational. His calm temperament, versatile skills, and maturity beyond his years make him one of India’s brightest young talents. With age on his side, he has the potential to become a cornerstone of Indian cricket in the coming decade, excelling as a dependable all-rounder.
