Not Nitish Reddy! Ravi Shastri Picks 25-Year-Old As India's Next Genuine Allrounder
Former India head coach Ravi Shastri gives his take on who among the current lot has the qualities to become the next genuine allrounder.
Washington Sundar has been earmarked by Ravi Shastri as India's next 'genuine" Test allrounder, given his lethal bowling in home conditions and his natural batting talent.
The 25-year-old offspinner, who made a remarkable Test debut at the Gabba in 2021, has had limited opportunities in red-ball cricket since then. In 11 Tests, Washington has scored 545 runs and taken 30 wickets.
'I always loved Washington. When I saw him on day one, I said he's the man. And he can be a genuine all-rounder for many, many years for India," Shastri said on The ICC Review.
Shastri feels Washington should have played more red-ball matches, especially considering his proven effectiveness on turning tracks at home.
'He again is just 25 years of age. I think he should have played a lot more Test cricket. Can be lethal in India on tracks where the ball is turning, as New Zealand found out when they played against India. He out-bowled some of the senior spinners. He bowled that well and he can bat."
Washington was the joint highest wicket-taker in the 2024 home Test series against New Zealand, finishing with 16 wickets in four innings.
Shastri, who oversaw Washington's Test debut, also praised his batting abilities, suggesting the Tamil Nadu player could be promoted up the order.
'He's a naturally talented batsman. He's no number 8. He can go at 6 very soon in the batting lineup."
In the ongoing England series, Washington has made significant contributions with both bat and ball. At Lord's, his 4/22 in the second innings, including the prized scalps of Joe Root, Ben Stokes, and Jamie Smith, turned the match in India's favour.
Shastri added that Washington's technical attributes make him valuable even in overseas conditions.
'And once he gains confidence, I think he'll get better and better because even overseas he's got the drift, he's got the pace, he's got the strength in his fingers and the fitness. You know, do both long spells and do the controlling job when needed."
With PTI Inputs
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