Sundar Opens Up on His Role in Indian Team

On Tuesday, July 14, India’s all-rounder Washington Sundar finished the first ODI against England with an unbeaten 52 off 63 balls, including a key six, to secure a six-wicket victory. India’s losing streak on their troublesome current tour of the United Kingdom, which included a 4-0 loss in the five-match T20I series, was ended by the run in response to England’s 258.

After captain Shubman Gill got injured for 80 off 75 balls, India was struggling at 160 for 4 when Sundar arrived at the crease. The left-hander then stabilised the chase and led his team to victory by forging a crucial, uninterrupted 102-run combination with Axar Patel for the fifth wicket. Axar was named Player of the Match after finishing undefeated with 57 off 52 balls.

“It’s fantastic that I get to play diverse roles across formats. Not many people get to play multiple roles. I get to play different roles, be in different situations, and certainly do my best to help the team win. Over the years, I’ve realised that I need to maintain refining my skill sets, which will benefit me when the circumstance arises across forms,” Sundar stated at the post-match news conference.

How did Sundar and Axar’s teamwork help salvage India’s chase?

Despite the fact that the pitch had moved, both hitters adapted to the situation with skill. Sundar thanked the captain for his previous support with the setup and praised his partner’s aggression throughout their game-winning stand. The all-rounder emphasised the importance of India’s aggressiveness and resilience during important moments. “There was definitely a little bit on the wicket, but Shubman batted really well.” Shreyas, too, valued the cooperation with Shubman. Axar’s crucial boundaries made it appear easy for us. It wasn’t as easy as it seemed. Sundar continued, “We played really well, and we’re happy to have won this game.”

Axar became only the sixth Indian player to achieve a fifty and capture four wickets in the same ODI, taking 4-62 with his first delivery and recording an undefeated half-century. With both all-rounders demonstrating their depth, India is currently in a strong position to contest the series decider in Cardiff on Thursday, July 16.