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In the just-concluded five-match Test series against England, 25-year-old spin-bowling all-rounder Washington Sundar had an impressive run and also emerged out as team's clutch performer when the chips were down. Playing in four matches, he showcased his skills with both bat and ball, finishing the series with a total of 284 runs and seven wickets. Sundar's notable performances included taking four wickets in the second innings of the Lord's Test and scoring an unbeaten century (101*) at number five in the second innings of the Manchester Test.
Washington Sundar earns Greg Chappell's praise
His outstanding contributions were recognized in the Indian dressing room, where he was awarded the Impact Player of the Series. Sundar's performance not only impressed Indian fans but also earned him high praise from former Australia captain Greg Chappell. In his column for ESPN Cricinfo, Chappell commended Sundar and stated he would be surprised if the young all-rounder didn't establish himself as a premier player for the team. Chappell even made a bold prediction, suggesting that he expects Sundar to go on and play more than 50 Tests for India.
“I will be surprised if Washington Sundar doesn’t establish himself as the team’s premier all-rounder, who I expect to play in excess of 50 Tests," Chappell wrote in his column.
Washington Sundar has played 13 matches since making his Test debut against Australia in January 2021 at The Gabba, Brisbane and has taken 32 wickets and scored 752 runs.Not jus Sundar, Chappell also had high praise for Mohammed Siraj in his column, stating that the fast bowler was the main reason India was able to remain competitive throughout the series.
“To bowl more than 185 overs in five Test matches over six weeks in any conditions is a physical, mental and emotional marathon. To do so with consistent intensity, while carrying the attack in the absence of Jasprit Bumrah for stretches, is bordering on heroic. Siraj’s final-innings spell at The Oval – culminating in nine wickets for the match – sealed the game. But it was what led to that moment that truly stood out," Chappell's column added.
“Siraj began the series tentatively. He lacked rhythm and confidence and bowled mixed lines and lengths. Questions were rightly asked about his readiness to lead the attack sans Bumrah. But with each Test, he grew. The body language changed. The shoulders didn’t slump; they squared. The run-up lengthened, the wrist snap sharpened, and the eyes burned even brighter. He didn’t just gain form – he grew in stature."
“By the final Test, he was no longer the support act. He was the main event. What impressed me most wasn’t the effort – which was immense – but the evolution. He started as a bowler with passion. He ended as a bowler with passion and purpose. That’s the difference between a player and a leader. I don’t think it is unfair to say that, despite the many wonderful batting efforts, Siraj was the main reason that India was competitive in the series," it further read.
Heroes' welcome for Siraj in Hyderabad
Upon his return to Hyderabad on Wednesday, Mohammed Siraj was welcomed as a hero for his leadership of India's pace attack. Stepping up in the absence of the rested Jasprit Bumrah, Siraj's exceptional performance earned him a celebratory reception. After flying from London to Mumbai, he was immediately greeted by fans at the domestic terminal who were eager for selfies and autographs. This enthusiastic welcome continued in Hyderabad, where more fans cheered for him, celebrating his sensational series performance.
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