IND vs NZ: "One-Off Game Where Certain Things Didn't Go Our Way"- Washington Sundar On New Zealand's Victory In The First T20I

Washington Sundar, an all-rounder for India, called their loss to New Zealand in the first T20I played here a “one-off” setback and predicted that the home team would come back in the three-match series.

India’s top three batsmen, including the in-form Shubman Gill (7), were dismissed for just 15 runs in just 19 balls, making it difficult for the remaining batters to complete the challenging 177-run chase. The home team eventually settled for 155 for 9, giving New Zealand a 21-run victory and their first win of the tour on Friday night.

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Before the new-look home team led by Hardik Pandya took over for the T20 leg, India whitewashed New Zealand 0-3 in the prior ODI series.

Washington, who returned with immaculate scores of 2/22 and quickly struck a 28-ball 50, said, “I think it was just a one-off game,I don’t think we have to fix anything just because it was spinning so fast. Only that one game. Things would have been very different if we had gotten off to a better start.”

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“Obviously, it spun, and such wickets can be found here and there“…people over here and players in our team have played on such wickets in the IPL and even in the Indian team. So, just that one-off game where certain things didn’t go our way,” Washington Sundar added.

“Arshdeep has taken so many wickets”: Washington Sundar

Arshdeep Singh, a left-arm pacer with dismal stats of 4-0-51-1, and young speed phenom Umran Malik, who allowed 16 runs in his sole over of bowling during New Zealand’s innings, were supported by Washington Sundar.

“Arshdeep has taken so many wickets for India and the IPL. We are also human beings who wish to participate in sports. Such things can happen when the competition is fierce and the opposition is of the top caliber,” Washington stated in support of his teammate.

“The way Malik bowled against Sri Lanka and New Zealand (in ODIs) that’s why we all know he’s here. He’s an X-factor, someone who consistently bowls over 150, which is an uncommon trait.” Washington went on to praise the team’s leadership, led by head coach Rahul Dravid.

On Sunday, the second Twenty20 International will be played in Lucknow.

Also Read: IND vs NZ: Aakash Chopra Questions Hardik Pandya’s Selection To Open The Bowling In The Opening T20I vs New Zealand

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