Former head coach Ravi Shastri has praised Washington Sundar fiercely. He believes that India has all the qualities of becoming the next ‘real’ test all -rounder in Washington. He is fatal to the ball under domestic conditions and is also a naturally talented batsman.
25 -year -old off -spinner Washington made a memorable Test debut in Gaba in 2021. Since then, he has got limited opportunities in red-ball cricket. Washington has scored 545 runs in 11 Tests and has taken 30 wickets.
Ravi Shastri said in ‘The ICC Review’, ‘I always loved Washington. When I saw him the first day, I said this is the right player. He will remain a good all -rounder for India for a long time.
Why do Washington dominate domestic pitches?
Shastri feels that Washington should have got opportunities to play more in red-ball cricket, especially because he specializes in moving the ball on domestic pitches.
He said, ‘He is still only 25 years old. I think he should have played more Test cricket. It can be very dangerous on such pitches in India where the ball rotates, as New Zealand has played against India. He has bowled better than some big spinners. He bowls so well and can also bat.
Washington Sundar was the highest wicket -taking player in the domestic Test series against New Zealand in 2024, he took a total of 16 wickets in four innings. Ravindra Jadeja also took 16 wickets in that series.
Shastri saw Washington’s Test debut. He also praised the batting of this player and said that he could come up in batting.
Washington Sundar Gets Ben Stikes in the Final Over Before Lunch! pic.twitter.com/qdprrjxt2j
– Sky Sports Cricket (@Skycrick) July 6, 2025
Shastri admitted, ‘He is a naturally talented batsman. He is not the number 8 batsman, he can bat very soon at number 6.
Washington performed all -round in the England series?
Washington has contributed significantly to both batting and bowling in the current England series. In the second innings at Lord’s, he took 4 wickets (4/22), including important wickets like Joe Root, Ben Stokes and Jamie Smith, which turned the match in India’s favor.
Shastri said that the technical features of Washington make him strong even in foreign circumstances. He said about Washington, ‘… and when his confidence will increase, he will do better because he has the strength to roam the ball, fast bowling, strong fingers and fitness. He can bowl for a long time and can also control the match.
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