- Full Name: Washington Sundar
- Nickname: Washi
- Date of Birth: October 5, 1999
- Age: 25 (as of 2025)
- Place of Birth: Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India
- Nationality: Indian
- Religion: Hinduism
- Profession: Professional Cricketer
- Batting Style: Left-handed
- Bowling Style: Right-arm off-break
- Role in Team: All-rounder
- Net Worth: Estimated around ₹25-30 crore (as of 2025)
Early Life and Background
Born into a middle-class household in Chennai, Tamil Nadu, Washington Sundar has a strong love for cricket. Despite not reaching the highest level, his father, M. Sundar, was a former cricket player who aspired to play for Tamil Nadu. M. Sundar gave his son the name of P.D. Washington in recognition of the mentor and well-wisher who encouraged his cricket hopes. Washington was born with a passion for cricket and began playing at an early age. Early talent recognition by his father allowed him to receive the proper coaching and exposure to competitive cricket.
Sundar attended Chennai’s St. Bede’s Anglo Indian Higher Secondary School, which is renowned for developing cricket talent. He was also developed in Tamil Nadu’s junior cricket system and trained at the MRF Pace Foundation. He started out as more of a hitter but eventually developed into a dependable all-rounder who could bowl off-spin as well as bat.
Domestic Career
During the 2016–17 Ranji Trophy, Washington made his first-class debut for Tamil Nadu and immediately became well-known for his poise and control, particularly when using the ball. He regularly produced performances that demonstrated his maturity beyond his years in List A and T20 domestic contests. In the 2016 U-19 Cricket World Cup, he was also a vital player of India’s Under-19 team, where his accuracy and economy stood out.
His progression to international cricket was made possible by his domestic accomplishments. His ability to finish innings with the bat and bowl efficiently in the powerplay overs made him a reliable figure in Tamil Nadu’s cricket team.
Indian Premier League (IPL) Career
In 2017, Sundar was first selected by the Rising Pune Supergiant to replace Ravichandran Ashwin, who was injured. His economical bowling, particularly on the powerplay, had an instant impact. He was named Man of the Match for his outstanding effort against the Mumbai Indians in the 2017 IPL Qualifier 1 after taking three wickets for 16 runs.
Following that, he relocated to Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB), where he remained instrumental from 2018 to 2021. He joined with Sunrisers Hyderabad in 2022 and then the Gujarat Titans. He established himself as one of the most economical bowlers and a useful lower-order batter during the seasons.
International Career
In December 2017, Washington played his first ODI and T20I for his country against Sri Lanka. However, it was during India’s 2020–21 tour of Australia that he had his breakthrough performance on the global front. despite a series of injuries, he was draughted into the Test team despite initially being a member of the T20 squad.
At the Gabba, he made his Test debut and was instrumental in India’s historic triumph. He formed a remarkable partnership with Shardul Thakur, taking important wickets, notably Steve Smith’s, and scoring a vital 62 in the first innings. He became known as a multi-format player with enormous potential after this performance.
Playing Style
All-around player Washington Sundar is renowned for his poise and flexibility. He can anchor an innings or end it because he is a left-handed hitter with the technique and attitude to bat in a variety of positions. Accuracy, flight, and deft variations characterise his off-spin bowling, which makes him useful in middle overs and powerplay. He frequently saves important runs in the deep and is a reliable defender as well.
Achievements
- Youngest Indian to debut across all three formats in the shortest span
- Vital contributor in India’s Test win at the Gabba (2021)
- Man of the Match in IPL 2017 Qualifier 1
- Consistently among top 10 most economical bowlers in IPL seasons
- Represented Lancashire in England’s County Cricket to hone his red-ball skills
Personal Life
Shailaja Sundar, Washington Sundar’s younger sister and aspiring cricket player, lives with his parents. He has a strong bond with his family, particularly his father, who has influenced his professional path. Off the field, Washington is known for his humble personality, love for pets, and quiet lifestyle. In his free time, he likes to play video games and listen to music.
He shares snippets of his personal and professional lives with his devoted fan base on social media. He is still firmly anchored in his morals and upbringing despite his notoriety.
Future Prospects
Washington Sundar, who is only in his mid-20s, is regarded as one of India’s most potential all-round players. He is anticipated to play a significant part in India’s next campaigns, particularly in ICC events, thanks to his impressive performances in Tests, ODIs, and T20s. The cricket community is looking forward to even bigger successes from him as he keeps improving and staying fit.
The journey of Washington Sundar, which has only just begun but already shows great potential, is one of tenacity, talent, and humility.
