Washington Sundar on Gambhir- Washington Sundar is an invaluable asset for any captain because of his versatility as a batsman and bowler. The 25-year-old, who is an off-spinner and left-handed hitter, is the type of player who can contribute with both bat and ball and who can move fluidly through the batting order.
In his short career, he has demonstrated that he can use his spin at different points in the innings, including using the new ball in powerplay overs. The 25-year-old, however, has been denied regular playing time in the Indian Premier League (IPL) and at the international level despite being an all-format cricket player.
The all-rounder discussed his opinions on the Impact Player rule, how he keeps his rhythm and routine despite having little opportunities, and the value of coach Gautam Gambhir’s support in a free-flowing interview with TimesofIndia.com.
Are there any IPL rules that you would want to see eliminated?
I’m on the team, therefore you really need to ask the audience. I don’t believe I have the authority to alter any of the regulations, and I wouldn’t even think about doing so. As a result, you will receive greater responses and undoubtedly more entertainment from the audience.
Whether playing for the Indian team or in the IPL, you often don’t receive much playing time. How hard is it to maintain that cadence?
Since we get to practise every single day, it’s really not too hard. We are free to work on various game elements and do what we choose. Therefore, I have control over finding the rhythm and keeping on top of the game. Finding the ideal rhythm and belief system will be possible if I give every session my all. It all comes down to the goal I have for every practice session.
Gautam Gambhir, the coach of Team India, has strongly supported you. To what extent does that matter to a player?
It really does make a big impact. My understanding of my ability and how to play my game in various contexts has improved because to Gauti bhai. Being under his tutelage has been an enormous learning experience. Understanding who you are and what your strengths are will undoubtedly make a big impact. Your graph will continue to rise in this manner, and you will be able to learn more about yourself from others around you. The past several months have taught me a lot about who I am.
In a similar vein, you working with Ashish Nehra at GT.
He and I have been friends for a long time. We also collaborated at RCB. I was therefore prepared for him and the GT culture. He is a strong proponent of situational adaptation and early condition reading. This season, as a squad, we’ve been doing it really well. He thinks that preparation is key to success. Whether you’re a beginner player or an experienced one, I believe that has truly worked for everyone.
All things considered, GT is a new franchise and a fresh setting for you. So far, how has the experience been?
Before I joined, I discussed GT with my pals Sai Sudharsan and Sai Kishore. We get to practise a lot, to be honest. We have the opportunity to work hard on developing all of our skill sets. You will undoubtedly discover your ideal rhythm and the enchantment you want if you have a clear goal in mind and are aiming to enhance any area of the game.
Are you trying to include anything new into your bowling game? Is there a mysterious ball?
Attempting new delivery is undoubtedly thrilling and enjoyable, particularly ones that don’t significantly alter your normal style. I have spent the past year and a half doing that. Finally, regardless of the format, bowling is something you must like. You’ll grow better and see more magic on the pitch if you obtain more enjoyment and work.
Batters are preferred on the surfaces used for IPL matches. For a conventional off-spinner like you, how challenging is it?
There are frequently very few or no helpers available, even for fast bowlers. Fast bowlers have few options outside of the first two overs. What will set them apart is how they adjust to those circumstances and perform at their highest level under trying circumstances. It all comes down to how you practise and approach your game.
You play pull shots and no-look shots with such ease and without sacrificing your form. Was it always that way?
Early in my career, I began to face fast bowlers and medium pacers. That was a big assistance. I was 13 when I first went to the MRF Pace Foundation to bat against fast bowlers. I’ve learnt over the years how to deal with pace and what strokes I can excel at and continue to become better at, especially when facing fast bowlers. Understanding my game is also important, and I have no trouble making those shots. In addition, I continue to get better every day in preparation for those shots.
As a top-order hitter, you began your career. Which position do you like to bat at?
Batting at the top is undoubtedly more enjoyable since you get more balls and have more chances to score runs. However, it’s also thrilling to enter the game when the team needs you to win and give it your all. The goal is always to win the game for the team, regardless of the circumstances. Nevertheless, hitting at the top and facing swing, speed, and good spin is a lot of fun. Making an effort to perform to the best of my skills under certain circumstances makes me pleased.
