Indian all-rounder Washington Sundar has admitted that having played as an opener in age-group cricket helped him cope with Australian bouncers and face their fiery bowlers with absolute brilliance at their so-called fortress The Gabba in the final Test of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy.
The 21-year-old made his Test debut for India in the Gabba Test where he hadn’t only contributed with the ball, but also with the bat immensely, making 62 and 22 and taking four scalps as well as contributing to Team India’s historic 3-wicket over Australia in the final Test in Brisbane.
The left-hander, who opened the batting for Tamil Nadu in the past too, had also added 123 runs with Shardul Thakur in the final Test against Australia at The Gabba.
Washington told the Times of India: “Definitely, the fact that I have grown up opening the batting was very helpful as I was more confident when the new ball was taken. It helped me with my belief and I had the skill set in place as well. I wanted to just play to the merit of the ball. I'm glad I was able to get runs and enjoyed batting in those conditions.”
The all-rounder honed his batting technique by primarily opening in his early days and he would like to occupy for India too, adding: “It will be a blessing to open the batting for India.”
While other young Indian batsmen were disturbed by the extra bounce on Australian wickets, Washington's preparation during the first three Tests as a net bowler helped him during his debut.
The spinner further explained, “During the first three Tests, I worked a lot on my fitness. It was a great experience to play on Australian soil. The more you play, the more you understand the pitches and get to know the options that you can use to be successful.
It was an amazing opportunity for me to prepare on those pitches and get a good exposure.”
However, the all-rounder admitted it can be hard to give equal time to batting and bowling at the same time, but he enjoys both aspects by saying “it is a little difficult, and you've to keep your fitness levels up as well but the process is fun.”
Noteworthy, Washington has been named in the India squad for the first two Tests against England and if he selects in the XI for the first Test at Chepauk starting on February 5, it will be his maiden home Test at his home ground and he is excited for the dream moment.
He signed off by saying, “It will be very special if I make my home debut at Chepauk. My family watching the game would have been a dream, but I am looking forward to the series.”
(With TOI Inputs)
