When teenage dreams come true, there is a lot of reason to rejoice, for players and onlookers alike. And Washington Sundar’s call up to the Indian T20 squad has been nothing short of dream come true for the young man, who was left out of India’s U-19 squad for the World Cup, earlier this week.
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Moreover, Sundar was in line to make it to the Indian squad earlier this year, when reports suggested that he could be in the 15 to face Australia, but his inability to pass the Yo-Yo Test meant that he had to wait for his chance to represent the nation.
The days that followed were dominated by hours in the gym, in order to pass the ‘hygiene’ fitness factor, and then topped it up with stellar performances in the Ranji Trophy, performing with both bat and ball.
“It is a dream come true for me. Not many teenagers get an opportunity to play for the country and I consider myself fortunate. Every practice session I attended was with the aim of playing for India some day,” said Washington.
“The fact that I missed out playing against a team like Australia hurt me, but I willed my way through that period. It was difficult but I did not lose belief.” he added.
Washington fondly remembers his time in the IPL, as it gave him a wonderful platform to play against and to interact with some of the best stars of World cricket. He was brought in to replace Ravichandran Ashwin and he boy did he do his job well.
Bowling crunch overs in the powerplay and getting handy runs down the order, Washington Sundar was that one of those stars that led Rising Pune Supergiant to the final of the IPL.
MS Dhoni had a huge role to play in how Washington functioned, especially in the power play and he was grateful that Dhoni nurtured him during his stint with RPS.
“I could walk up to him for his advice even during his off hours. He would gladly share his thoughts with me, sort out my problems, give me valuable suggestions.
“Behind the stumps, he would always encourage me. I am so happy I am joining the Indian squad when he is in the team.” Washington concluded.
It would be a dream come true for Washington to play alongside MS Dhoni in India colours, and hopefully for the Indian fans India can unearth some future stars in the upcoming series against Sri Lanka
