Washington Sundar Credits Rhythm For Match Winning Test Show

Washington Sundar Credits Rhythm For Match Winning Test Show Against Afghanistan

Washington Sundar played a pivotal role in India's historic innings and 300-run victory over Afghanistan in the one-off Test at the New PCA Stadium in New Chandigarh. Returning to red-ball cricket after an extended period focused on T20 cricket, the Indian all-rounder delivered an impressive all-round performance that highlighted his growing value to the Test side.

Sundar contributed with both bat and ball, scoring an unbeaten half-century in the first innings before claiming four crucial wickets in Afghanistan's second innings. Following India's biggest victory in Test cricket history, the 26-year-old revealed that finding his bowling rhythm early in the match was one of the most satisfying aspects of his performance.

Sundar Enjoys Successful Return To Test Cricket

After spending several weeks immersed in the shorter formats, Washington Sundar admitted that returning to Test cricket required a different mindset. However, he quickly settled into the demands of the format and found his rhythm from the opening spell.

The all-rounder emphasized that getting enough bowling volume before and during the game helped him regain his natural flow. According to Sundar, the confidence that came from feeling comfortable with the ball from the very beginning played a major role in his success throughout the match.

His disciplined approach allowed him to consistently challenge Afghanistan's batters and maintain pressure across long spells.

Bowling Accuracy Key To Success

While many bowlers focus on varying pace and experimenting with different deliveries, Sundar explained that his primary objective was to maintain rhythm and hit the right lengths consistently.

The surface in New Chandigarh offered assistance for bowlers, but Sundar recognized that accuracy would be more effective than excessive variation. By targeting areas close to the stumps and maintaining disciplined lines, he forced batters into mistakes and restricted scoring opportunities.

His understanding of the pitch conditions proved vital. The slower nature of the surface meant that deliveries pitched on a good length remained difficult to attack, allowing him to control the tempo of Afghanistan's innings.

That strategy paid dividends as Sundar picked up four wickets in the second innings and played a crucial role in triggering the visitors' collapse.

Valuable Contribution With The Bat

Sundar's impact extended beyond his bowling. Coming to the crease during the latter stages of India's first innings, he displayed patience and maturity to remain unbeaten on 52.

His knock helped India extend their total to a massive 564 for 8 declared, putting Afghanistan under enormous scoreboard pressure.

The innings showcased Sundar's ability to adapt his game according to the team's requirements. Rather than chasing quick runs, he focused on discipline and shot selection, ensuring India maximized their advantage before declaring.

The all-rounder later admitted that he was equally pleased with his batting contribution and the controlled manner in which he approached the innings.

India Complete Historic Victory

India dominated every phase of the match. Centuries from Shubman Gill and KL Rahul laid the foundation, while contributions from Sai Sudharsan, Rishabh Pant and Sundar strengthened the hosts' position.

Debutant Manav Suthar stole the spotlight with a six-wicket haul in Afghanistan's first innings, but Sundar's all-round display ensured India maintained complete control throughout the contest.

Afghanistan were bowled out for 152 in their first innings and 112 after being forced to follow on, giving India a record-breaking victory by an innings and 300 runs.

Short Scorecard Summary

India 564/8 declared in 127 overs

• Shubman Gill 126

• KL Rahul 100

• Sai Sudharsan 81

• Rishabh Pant 81

• Washington Sundar 52 not out

• Mohammad Saleem Safi 6/140

Afghanistan First Innings 152 all out

• Rahmat Shah 60

• Manav Suthar 6/33

• Prasidh Krishna 3/37

Afghanistan Second Innings 112 all out

• Sediqullah Atal 42

• Rahmanullah Gurbaz 24

• Washington Sundar 4/36

• Kuldeep Yadav 3/30

Result: India won by an innings and 300 runs

Key Takeaways

• Washington Sundar scored an unbeaten 52 and took four wickets.

• The all-rounder credited rhythm and discipline for his success.

• India recorded the biggest Test victory in their history.

• Manav Suthar starred on debut with a six-wicket haul.

• Afghanistan were dismissed twice inside three days.

• India's all-round dominance highlighted their strength in red-ball cricket.