Russel Arnold Reveals What Rahul Dravid Had Told Him About Washington Sundar During The 2016 U-19 World Cup
Published - 17 Jan 2021, 05:07 PM | Updated - 23 Aug 2024, 01:29 PM
Former Sri Lankan all-rounder-turned commentator Russel Arnold has heaped high praise on debutant Indian off-spinning all-rounded Washington Sundar for his brilliant knock in the first innings of the ongoing series-decider against Australia at the Gabba in Brisbane.
Washington Sundar, on Sunday, displayed just why he is hailed for his ability to bat as he showed remarkable composure, grit, composure during his 144-ball 62.
Washington Sundar became the first visiting No.7 batsman to score a half-century in his debut Test in Australia since 1911. The left-hander stitched a record-breaking 123-run-stand with fellow half-centurion Shardul Thakur to not only break India’s record of highest seventh-wicket stand- a feat previously held by Kapil Dev and Manoj Prabhakar- but also to lift the tourists from a precarious position they had found themselves when the duo came together.
The duo came together to bat after India had lost their three frontline batsmen within a space of 42 runs and with just four wickets in hand and a long tail to follow, it looked like the Australians would notch up a hefty first-innings lead.
But a remarkable display by Washington Sundar and Shardul Thakur ensured that it wasn’t the case as their 123-run partnership helped the visitors notch up 336 in their first innings.
Washington Sundar had come into the team ahead of leg-spinner Kuldeep Yadav due to their superior batting talent and he proved that to the hilt on Sunday.
He also vindicated his former coach Rahul Dravid’s words, who, Rusell Arnold revealed, had told him that he was the man to watch out for as far as temperament with the bat is concerned during the 2016 U-19 World Cup.
“Well done @Sundarwashi5 Rahul Dravid told me in Bangladesh during U19 WC that he was the man to watch with bat.. was speaking of temperament .. and Sunda showing it now .. he was 16 then . Congratulations ?” wrote Rusell Arnold on Twitter.
Well done @<!---->S<!---->u<!---->n<!---->d<!---->a<!---->r<!---->w<!---->a<!---->s<!---->h<!---->i<!---->5 Rahul Dravid told me in Bangladesh during U19 WC that he was the man to watch with bat.. was speaking of temperament .. and Sunda showing it now .. he was 16 then . Congratulations ?
— Russel Arnold (@RusselArnold69) J<!---->a<!---->n<!---->u<!---->a<!---->r<!---->y<!----> <!---->1<!---->7<!---->,<!----> <!---->2<!---->0<!---->2<!---->1
