A platform to showcase the talents

Washington Sundar, who won the Player of the Match award for his bowling performance in India's third T20I against Zimbabwe, has spoken about being seen as a potential replacement for Ravindra Jadeja. India's ongoing tour of Zimbabwe is being viewed as a preview of the team's future in T20 cricket, following the retirement of senior players like Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, and Ravindra Jadeja.

While replacing the legendary Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli is a daunting task, the search for a reliable spin-bowling all-rounder like Jadeja is more promising. Axar Patel is already a strong candidate, and Washington Sundar is emerging as another prime contender. Sundar has impressed with his all-round abilities, keeping India in contention with the bat during their defeat in the first T20I and delivering a match-winning bowling performance with figures of 3/15 in the third T20I.

In a post-match press conference, when asked if he is ready to fill Jadeja's shoes, Sundar emphasised his focus on preparation and giving his best effort. "I need to do well where I am good at and what I am capable of, especially with my preparation. I need to give my 100 percent every single day. That's something that I have not compromised on," he stated.

At 24, Sundar has demonstrated his potential as a genuine all-rounder in all formats of the game. In the four Test matches he has played, he has been more successful with the bat, contributing crucial runs in key situations. Notably, during India's famous series win in Australia in 2020/21, Sundar played important knocks. He was stranded on an unbeaten 96 in a Test against England in Ahmedabad in March 2021 and has scored three half-centuries in six Test innings.

Sundar spoke about his commitment to staying focused on his preparations. "It [preparing well] keeps me in the present and obviously I am very confident as well [about his skills]. It's a great opportunity for me to play for India, and I am blessed with it. I need to keep my job consistently, keep preparing and keep getting better. That way everything will be taken care of," he said.

India's ongoing series in Zimbabwe has given young players like Sundar a platform to showcase their talents and solidify their places in the team, ensuring a promising future for Indian cricket.