The previous week witnessed India’s unexpected loss in the first Test against New Zealand in Bengaluru, while all-rounder Washington Sundar was actively participating in a Ranji Trophy match for Tamil Nadu in Delhi. In that game, he showcased an impressive performance by scoring a century, triggering a series of significant events in his career. Subsequently, not only did he receive a summon from the national selectors for the upcoming second Test but he also surpassed the leading spinner Kuldeep Yadav to secure a spot in the playing eleven for the match.
During the first day of the Test match, as New Zealand was cruising at 197/3 and the renowned duo of Ravichandran Ashwin and Ravindra Jadeja struggled against Rachin Ravindra, who was the standout player in the previous game, it was Washington, known more for his batting prowess with an impressive average of nearly 50 in his brief five-Test career, that made a significant impact with the ball. Despite his previous batting heroics in the memorable Gabba victory in 2021, the 25-year-old emerged as India’s surprise asset on the bowling front, claiming figures of 7/59 that helped India stage a comeback in the ongoing three-Test series, where they currently trail 0-1. Together with the experienced Ashwin, who scalped 3/64, these two cricketers from Chennai orchestrated the downfall of all ten Kiwi batsmen.
Washington attributed the turn of events in his favor, from the obscurity of domestic cricket to potentially a series-saving performance, to divine intervention. A celestial delivery dismissed Rachin and dismantled New Zealand for 259. India, in response, reached 16/1 by the close of play.
In a strategic move, he deployed a meticulously crafted ball from the spin laboratory aimed at outwitting Rachin at the castle. The ball glided in with a hint of deception, maintaining a delicate balance – not overly swerving for Rachin to counter with his long reach, nor too predictable for him to easily defend against. As it descended, slightly lower than anticipated by the batsman, it danced across the bat’s surface with a cunning spin. Though Rachin believed he had the line covered, he was mistaken.
A slight turn took place, gently curving instead of sharply spinning off. If the ball had spun more dramatically, it might have avoided the off-stump. Washington bent down and let out a joyful shout as his teammates gathered around him. This magnificent delivery marked the start of a remarkable day for him. He went on to claim six more wickets, showcasing one of the most exceptional spells by an Indian spinner on home soil.
Through the day, the cricketer with an unusual name was trending on social media. There is an interesting backstory to the name. It is a tale that stems from the gratitude of his father. Washington is named after P D Washington, an ex-Army man who used to be a godfather of sorts for his father, Sundar, helping him buy cricket gear during his playing days. He died just before the birth of the India all-rounder. In gratitude, Sundar named his son after the man.
Washington bided his time for his moment of triumph. In the midst of overs during the second session, the humble all-rounder endeavored to catch Rohit Sharma’s eye by engaging in warm-up exercises in the captain’s view, moving around and sharing words in a hushed manner, and making gestures without any overt appeal.
His efforts during the first 13 overs yielded no results as his hard work wasn’t reflected in the wicket column. During a break in the session, while cleaning his cleats and tidying up the playing area, he caught the attention of Rohit with a smile, patiently allowing Jadeja to complete his over before beginning his own. Standing at the top of his run-up, he was eager to start even before Rachin had finished readjusting his position. The New Zealand batsman deliberately delayed, tying his shoelaces and surveying the field before finally facing the next delivery from Washington. This awaited moment concluded with a remarkable delivery that Washington described as a dream ball, highlighting its significance and magic.
The dismissal of Rachin was only the beginning of Washington’s impressive performance. Following the tea break, he successfully removed Tom Blundell and Daryll Mitchell from the game. Washington showcased a remarkable improvement in his bowling under the bright Pune sun, revealing a heightened level of self-awareness. While acknowledging that he may not possess the wide array of variations like Ashwin, Washington compensates with his unique skills. Without a carrom ball or exceptional spin, he surprises batsmen with well-disguised under-cutters, as seen in his effective delivery against Tim Southee.
Utilizing his height advantage, elevated release point, and skillful application of over-spin, he effectively generates bounce off the pitch. Consequently, his deliveries make contact with the bat at a higher point compared to his counterparts with similar spin abilities. While he may appear somewhat predictable at first glance, he strategically varies his pace with subtle adjustments rather than drastic fluctuations. By tailoring the length of his deliveries based on the batsman’s stature and range, he demonstrates a keen understanding of the game. Despite the minor nature of these modifications, they prove to be remarkably effective. In essence, he embodies a taller, right-handed incarnation of Jadeja.
He outperformed Kuldeep Yadav and Axar Patel within just 10 overs, proving himself to be a superior batsman to both. This Thursday, he showcased his prowess, demonstrating that he is more than just a reliable support player – he has truly stepped into the spotlight and evolved into a prominent figure.
