Asia Cup miss for Washington Sundar, but India’s rising all-rounder remains key

Dubai: Washington Sundar has built a reputation for composure — on the field and off it. That calm strength will be tested after he was left out of India’s Asia Cup squad, named only among the standbys despite the spin-friendly conditions in the UAE.

Chief selector Ajit Agarkar confirmed on Tuesday that Washington “will always be in the scheme of things.” The decision, he explained, was guided by India’s need for extra batting cover and a mix of mystery and wrist-spin options. “For now, we felt we needed an extra batter in Rinku,” Agarkar said, as Varun Chakravarthy, Kuldeep Yadav, and Axar Patel were picked ahead of Sundar in the spin department.

The omission comes despite Sundar’s impressive contributions during the five-Test series against England, including key innings of a battling unbeaten century and a crucial half-century in the final Test apart from a four-wicket haul, where his defensive technique and patience stood out. His development as a reliable off-spinner has also made him a multi-dimensional option for India across formats.

But those who have worked closely with him point to his temperament as the quality that will help him weather such challenges.

“His biggest asset is his positivity and ability to stay calm. Opponents try to distract him, but he doesn’t react — he answers with performance,” said MRF Pace Foundation coach M. Senthilnathan, who has tracked Sundar’s development closely.

Adapting to the different formats

That calmness has shaped both his batting and bowling. Coaches have stressed how Washington has worked to adapt from the quick-scoring mindset of T20s to the patience of Test cricket, learning to leave balls outside off-stump and build longer innings. With the ball, he has provided India with control and crucial breakthroughs.

“Washington has really worked hard to get to this stage. He’s one of those cricketers who doesn’t show emotions outside but performs consistently,” he said.

Big shoes to fill

Senthilnathan sees Washington as the natural successor to fellow Tamil Nadu state-mate, Ravichandran Ashwin’s legacy — the torchbearer who blends spin, batting, and fielding to bolster India’s all-round strength. “It’s a big shadow to step into, but Washington has started well and looks poised to grow,” Senthilnathan said.

At just 26, Washington Sundar is steadily carving his niche. With focus, work ethic, and the backing of coaches like Senthilnathan, he’s transforming from a promising youngster into a linchpin for India’s future across formats.