Washington Sundar receives Rs 7.5 million from CM Vijay in a ceremony

Dubai: Washington Sundar has received a Rs 75 lakh (Dh 286,000) cash incentive from Tamil Nadu Chief Minister C Joseph Vijay after helping India win gold in men’s cricket at the 2026 Asian Games in Japan.

Vijay had already announced the reward on October 3, congratulating Sundar and the Indian team after their victory over Pakistan in the final. Now, the Tamil Nadu government has formally presented the incentive, with Vijay and Sundar meeting in person for the ceremony.

Sundar played an important role in India’s 19-run victory over Pakistan, taking two wickets for 29 runs in his four overs. India posted 211 for six before restricting Pakistan to 192 for six to successfully defend their Asian Games title.

The Tamil Nadu all-rounder was also effective in the semifinal against Sri Lanka, bowling three overs and taking one wicket while also delivering a maiden over.

Vijay had said Sundar’s achievement would provide inspiration and confidence to youngsters in the state when he first announced the reward. The chief minister also wished the cricketer success in his future assignments.

Sundar was not the only Tamil Nadu cricketer recognised for an Asian Games gold medal.

G Kamalini also received a Rs 75 lakh incentive from Vijay after being part of India’s gold-medal winning women’s cricket team. The 18-year-old from Madurai featured during India’s successful campaign, which ended with a 147-run victory over Sri Lanka in the final.

Kamalini had already been presented as one of Tamil Nadu’s rising sporting talents. The wicketkeeper-batter was part of India’s Under-19 Asia Cup and T20 World Cup successes before making her senior debut and later becoming the youngest player to make her WPL debut.

The Tamil Nadu government has continued to recognise athletes from the state following their performances at the Asian Games, with several medal winners receiving recognition after returning from Japan.