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Key Points

Sai Sudharsan opens up about how Washington Sundar shaped his cricketing dreams since childhood. The Tamil Nadu teammates are set to play their first Test together in England. Sudharsan credits Sundar's national team journey as a driving force behind his own success. Their partnership adds depth to India's squad for the crucial WTC series against England.

Key Points: Sai Sudharsan Credits Washington Sundar as Childhood Inspiration Ahead of England Tests

  • Sudharsan recalls Sundar's rapid rise as motivation
  • Both Chennai talents debut together in England Tests
  • Sudharsan impressed with Surrey in County Championship
  • Sundar returned to Test squad after New Zealand series
3 min read

Washington Sundar has been my inspiration since I was young: Sai Sudharsan

India's rising star Sai Sudharsan reveals how Washington Sundar inspired his cricket journey as both prepare for the England Test series.

"He has been my inspiration since I was young... I had that in my mind. - Sai Sudharsan"

New Delhi, June 16

Ahead of the first Test against England, starting on June 20 in Leeds, in-form left-handed batter B Sai Sudharsan spoke about how his Tamil Nadu team-mate, off-spin bowling all-rounder Washington Sundar, has been a source of inspiration since he was young.

This is also the first time both Sundar and Sudarshan have been a part of the Test team on a trip to England. "He has been my inspiration since I was young. I have played a few games against him, so it is always special. To be honest, we have looked up to him a lot. I have practised once or twice (against Sundar), the way he went up and played for the country, it was really quick, so I had that in my mind.

“After a few years of playing well in the IPL, and then he played for the country. So it was a great motivator for me from Chennai. Knowing him since I was young, playing with him, it is kind of an inspiration. It made me feel I want to do things the same way. So he’s been my inspiration since I was young," Sudharsan said in a video posted on bcci.tv on Monday.

Apart from winning the Orange Cap in IPL 2025, Sudharsan, who’s played three ODIs and a T20Is for India, has been impressive in first-class cricket games. He also scored 281 runs over two seasons for county side Surrey as the side won consecutive County Championship titles.

Sundar, on the other hand, made his India debut quickly in 2017 and has been a part of the Test team since earning a recall in last year’s series against New Zealand.

"Every time I have watched him on TV, there is a lot to take away from him, his skillset and work ethic he has got. A lot of my friends and coaches in Chennai have constantly spoken about his growth in his cricketing career. He’s grown a lot, especially in the last three to four years, and he’s managed to get better every year. He has inspired a lot of kids, especially in Chennai, and I hope he will continue inspiring kids all over the world. I am very happy for him," Sundar said about his impression of Sudharsan.

India’s five-match Test series against England runs from June 20 to August 4, with matches to be played at Headingley, Edgbaston, Lord’s, Old Trafford and The Oval. India, led by Shubman Gill, are aiming to win a Test series in England for the first time since 2007. The Test series in England will also be India’s first assignment in the 2025-27 World Test Championship cycle.

- IANS

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Reader Comments

R
Rahul K.
So heartwarming to see young talents like Sai Sudharsan acknowledging their inspirations! Washington Sundar has indeed been a silent warrior for Indian cricket. Hope both make us proud in England! 🇮🇳 #WhistlePodu
P
Priya M.
As a Chennaiite, I'm so proud to see our boys representing India! Washington's journey from TNPL to Test cricket is truly inspiring. Sai's humility in recognizing this shows great character. Best wishes for the England series!
A
Arjun S.
While I appreciate the camaraderie, I hope the selectors aren't picking players based on regional connections. Performance should be the only criteria. That said, both are talented players who deserve their spots.
S
Sneha R.
Washington Sundar is such an underrated player! His all-round abilities are perfect for English conditions. And Sai's technique looks solid - hope he gets a chance to play. England series will be tough but exciting! 🏏
V
Vikram J.
Good to see Tamil Nadu producing so many quality players lately. From Ashwin to Sundar to Sai - they're carrying forward the legacy of Dravid and Laxman. Hope they perform better than last England tour!
N
Neha P.
The mentor-mentee relationship in cricket is so beautiful to see! Reminds me of Sachin-Shaw or Dhoni-Jadeja bonds. Wishing both players success - we need fresh faces to win in England after 17 years!

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