Washington Sundar Opens Up: ‘Gautam Gambhir Has Helped Me Realize My True Potential’

New Delhi: At just 25, Washington Sundar has emerged as a versatile all-rounder, capable of turning games with both bat and ball. A left-handed batter and a crafty off-spinner, Sundar’s ability to adapt to any batting position and bowl at crucial stages makes him a captain’s dream. Whether it’s spinning webs during powerplays or playing match-defining knocks, his skill set is a rare commodity in modern cricket.

However, despite his undeniable talent, consistent game time has eluded him, be it at the international level or in the high-octane Indian Premier League (IPL). With only sporadic appearances for India and limited opportunities in the IPL, Sundar has had to fight hard to maintain his rhythm. In an exclusive conversation with us, the Tamil Nadu-born cricketer opened up about his journey, the impact of coach Gautam Gambhir, his stint with Gujarat Titans (GT), and how he keeps himself match-ready despite challenges.

Navigating Limited Opportunities with Resilience

One of the biggest hurdles for Sundar has been the lack of regular matches. Yet, he remains unfazed. ‘It’s not too difficult to keep the rhythm going because we practice every single day,’ he said with a calm assurance. ‘I focus on giving 100 percent in every session. If I bring purpose to my training, I can stay on top of my game. It’s all about building the right belief system.’

This mindset reflects his maturity beyond years. Sundar’s stats speak for themselves—across 4 Tests, 22 ODIs, and 47 T20Is, he has picked up 47 wickets and scored vital runs under pressure, including a gritty 62 on debut against Australia in the iconic 2021 Gabba Test. His IPL record, with 37 wickets in 58 matches, further underlines his potential as a game-changer.

Gautam Gambhir: The Mentor Behind the Transformation

A significant factor in Sundar’s recent growth has been the unwavering support of Team India’s head coach, Gautam Gambhir. ‘Gauti bhai has made a massive difference,’ Sundar admitted. ‘He’s helped me understand my potential and approach my game in different situations. Being under him has been a huge learning curve. I’ve discovered new perspectives about myself in the last few months.’

Gambhir’s aggressive yet calculated approach seems to resonate with Sundar, who thrives on clarity and confidence. This mentorship could be pivotal as India prepares for upcoming challenges, including the Border-Gavaskar Trophy later this year, where Sundar’s all-round skills could prove invaluable on Australian pitches.

Life at Gujarat Titans: A New Chapter with Ashish Nehra

Switching to Gujarat Titans in the IPL has been a refreshing change for Sundar. Working under coach Ashish Nehra, whom he previously collaborated with at Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB), has brought familiarity and growth. ‘Ashish bhai believes in adapting to situations and reading conditions early,’ Sundar revealed. ‘His focus on preparation has worked wonders for everyone at GT, whether you’re a youngster or a senior player.’

Sundar also credits the GT setup for providing ample practice opportunities. ‘I spoke to friends like Sai Sudharsan and Sai Kishore before joining. The volume of training here helps you improve every skill. If you have a purpose, you’re bound to find your best rhythm,’ he added. GT’s team culture, which led them to the IPL title in 2022, seems to be the perfect environment for Sundar to flourish.

Evolving as a Bowler: Experimenting with Mystery

As a traditional off-spinner in a batter-dominated IPL, Sundar faces unique challenges. With pitches often offering little assistance after the initial overs, adaptability is key. ‘Even fast bowlers struggle beyond the first two overs,’ he noted. ‘It’s about how you think and work on your game to stand out in tough conditions.’

To stay ahead, Sundar has been tinkering with new deliveries. ‘It’s exciting to try variations like the carrom ball without altering my natural technique too much,’ he shared. ‘Bowling is something I enjoy, and the more effort I put in, the more magic I see on the field.’ This innovative mindset could make him a lethal weapon in the upcoming IPL seasons.

Batting Prowess: From Top-Order to Finisher

Originally a top-order batter, Sundar’s effortless pull shots and no-look flicks have caught the eye of fans and experts alike. ‘Facing fast bowlers early in my career at the MRF Pace Foundation helped me a lot,’ he recalled. ‘From the age of 13, I learned how to handle speed and refine shots like the pull. It’s about understanding my game and preparing daily.’

While he enjoys opening the innings for the chance to face more deliveries, Sundar is equally thrilled to bat lower down if the team needs a match-winner. ‘Batting at the top is fun because you face swing, speed, and quality spin. But it’s also exciting to come in when the team needs you to win. It’s all about contributing to the cause,’ he emphasized.

Thoughts on IPL Rules: A Diplomatic Take

When quizzed about the controversial Impact Player rule in the IPL, Sundar chose to remain neutral. ‘You really have to ask the audience. I’m just part of the team and don’t have control over changing rules. The fans will give you better answers and definitely more entertainment,’ he said with a smile. His diplomatic stance reflects a focus on performance over off-field debates.

As Washington Sundar continues to hone his craft, the cricketing world watches with bated breath. With mentors like Gambhir and Nehra guiding him, and a burning desire to excel, this young all-rounder is poised to become a cornerstone of Indian cricket in the years ahead. Will 2025 be his breakout year? Only time will tell, but one thing is certain—Sundar is ready for the challenge.