Follow UsSince Ravichandran Ashwin's retirement, India are on the hunt for a match-winning off-spinner, who can also play crucial knocks with the bat. That search seems to have ended with Washington Sundar in the fray. Former India head coach Ravi Shastri believes that the 25-year-old can be a genuine all-rounder in the years to come.
“I always loved Washington. When I saw him on day one, I said he’s the man. And he can be a genuine all-rounder for many, many years for India," Shastri said on The ICC Review, as reported by News 18.
Sundar has been in good form with ball and bat in the ongoing Test series against England. In fact, at Lord's, he picked up four wickets, which included that of Joe Root, Ben Stokes and Jamie Smith to help India claw back in the game.
Moreover, he has looked steady down the order with the bat, scoring 43, 12, 23 and 0 in the four innings in the series so far. Shastri believes Sundar, who has hit four fifties in 20 Test innings, can even play higher than eight, if needed.
“He’s a naturally talented batsman. He’s no number 8. He can go at 6 very soon in the batting lineup," Shastri added.
Shastri also believes that Sundar has the technical ability to succeed in both home and away. “And once he gains confidence, I think he’ll get better and better because even overseas he’s got the drift, he’s got the pace, he’s got the strength in his fingers and the fitness. You know, do both long spells and do the controlling job when needed," he said.
Sundar will hope to make a vital all-round contribution once again when India take on England in the fourth Test in Manchester, starting July 23 (Wednesday).