Washington Sundar reveals 'experienced' R Ashwin's role in his 7-wicket heroics
Washington Sundar revealed R Ashwin's role during New Zealand's innings as the off-spinner picked up a 7-wicket haul on Day 1 of the 2nd Test. Sundar made an impressive comeback to the Test side after three years and picked his career-best figures.
by India Today Sports Desk · India TodayIn Short
- Washington Sundar makes impressive return to Test cricket after 3 years
- Sundar picks 7 wickets in New Zealand's 1st innings in Pune
- New Zealand were bowled out for 259 runs on Day 1 of 2nd Test
Indian off-spinner Washington Sundar revealed R Ashwin's role in his 7-wicket haul on Day 1 of the 1st Test between India and New Zealand at Maharashtra Cricket Stadium in Pune on October 24, Thursday. Sundar starred with the ball on his return to Test cricket after three years as he picked his maiden 5-wicket haul in Tests. Sundar replaced Kuldeep Yadav in India's playing XI for the 2nd Test and was one among three changes that were introduced by Rohit Sharma. Sundar not only justified his selection, but also learnt from the veteran off-spinner Ashwin to deliver his career-best figures of 7/59.
"The ball became very soft. So we had to give more speed to the ball. That was something me and Ash kept talking about. I mean, he said it like that himself in the spell after lunch. That's how he got Conway out as well. We spoke about it and were glad I was able to do it as well. Yes, I didn't actually change too many things. On this wicket, we expected there would be something for the spinners and I really wanted to hit the right areas against different batters," Sundar said in the press conference.
Sundar shines on comeback
Washington Sundar produced a career-best performance, claiming 7 for 59, to trigger a dramatic New Zealand collapse on Day 1 of the second Test in Pune. The visitors crumbled from a comfortable 197/3 to being bowled out for 259, handing India the upper hand. At stumps, India was 16/1, with the game evenly poised.
Washington also hailed his Tamil Nadu counterpart Ashwin for the experience and skill sets that he brings.
"We communicated a lot"
"We communicated a lot honestly, and he brings in a lot of quality, skill sets and experience. That really helps for someone who is also playing along with them. It definitely helped me today. And ya, it is special, isn't it? To be playing in a game in which both of them are part of it as well. I hope we get to play lot more games together," he added.
Sundar's impressive spell marked the first-ever five-wicket haul by an Indian spinner at this venue, and neutralised the half-centuries scored earlier by Devon Conway and Rachin Ravindra. His brilliant display dismantled New Zealand's middle and lower order, as he claimed the final seven wickets after R Ashwin's early breakthroughs.
Five of Sundar's dismissals came through bowled, with one lbw and another caught, showcasing his skill in deceiving batters both in the air and off the pitch. This was Sundar's maiden five-wicket haul in Test cricket and also his best figures in first-class cricket. Meanwhile, Ashwin's three wickets saw him surpass Nathan Lyon's tally of 530 Test wickets, achieving the milestone in 25 fewer matches.