Introduction: The Brisbane Miracle Maker
On January 19, 2021, Washington Sundar, a 21-year-old from Chennai, walked into the Gabba with India reeling at 329/6 in a historic Test against Australia. Tasked with supporting Rishabh Pant, the all-rounder defied Pat Cummins and Josh Hazlewood with a gutsy 62, scripting India’s first-ever Test win at the fortress. That innings wasn’t just a career-defining moment—it was a testament to Sundar’s unyielding grit. Today, he’s India’s crisis man, an IPL stalwart, and a symbol of quiet resilience. This blog unravels his journey from Chennai’s gullies to cricket’s grandest stages.
Early Life and Background: Chennai’s Cricket Prodigy
Born on October 5, 1999, in Chennai, Washington Sundar was named after former South African fast bowler Allan Donald’s mentor, Reverend Washington. His father, M. Sundar, a former TNCA umpire, introduced him to tennis-ball cricket at 8. By 12, he was training under coach Jayaprakash at the renowned VB Cricket Academy.
Key Early Milestones
- 2013: Scored 159* in a U14 school match, breaking K. Srikkanth’s record.
- 2016: Debuted for Tamil Nadu at 16, becoming the state’s youngest first-class cricketer.
- 2017: Picked for India’s U19 World Cup squad but withdrew due to a senior team call-up.
Domestic Career: Tamil Nadu’s All-Round Anchor
Sundar’s off-spin precision and lower-order batting made him a domestic lynchpin.
Domestic Stats (As of July 2024)
| Format | Matches | Runs | Batting Avg | Wickets | Bowling Avg |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| First-Class | 28 | 1,245 | 35.57 | 67 | 26.80 |
| List A | 45 | 987 | 32.90 | 54 | 29.45 |
| T20s | 95 | 872 | 24.22 | 89 | 21.30 |
Source: BCCI Domestic Records
Notable Achievements
- 2016/17 Ranji Trophy: 24 wickets and 361 runs as Tamil Nadu’s youngest debutant.
- 2022 Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy: 15 wickets at 13.40, guiding TN to the title.
- 2023 Vijay Hazare Trophy: 214 runs & 12 wickets, earning Player of the Series.
International Career: India’s Crisis Specialist
Sundar’s ability to thrive under pressure earned him roles across formats:
- 2017 Nidahas Trophy: Debuted as a 18-year-old, taking 8 wickets at 14.12.
- 2020/21 Australia Tour: Brisbane heroics (62 runs, 4 wickets) and Gabba glory.
- 2023 Asia Cup: 3/30 vs Pakistan, defending 266 in a low-scoring thriller.
International Stats (As of July 2024)
| Format | Matches | Runs | Batting Avg | Wickets | Bowling Avg |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tests | 6 | 265 | 33.12 | 12 | 34.50 |
| ODIs | 18 | 294 | 24.50 | 21 | 32.76 |
| T20Is | 42 | 187 | 15.58 | 34 | 25.90 |
IPL Journey: From Rising Pune Supergiant to Sunrisers Hyderabad’s Silent Star
Sundar’s IPL career began in 2017 with Rising Pune Supergiant (₹3.2 crore). His economy and adaptability made him a sought-after asset.
IPL Career Stats (2017–2024)
| Season | Team | Matches | Runs | Wickets | Economy | Highlights |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2017 | Rising Pune Supergiant | 11 | 87 | 8 | 6.16 | Player of the Match vs MI (3/16) |
| 2020 | Royal Challengers Bangalore | 15 | 111 | 8 | 5.96 | Eco. King Award |
| 2024 | Sunrisers Hyderabad | 14 | 178 | 12 | 7.05 | 3/18 vs KKR, 45 (22) vs DC* |
IPL 2025 Salary (Projected): ₹8–10 crore (Sources: ESPNcricinfo Auction Analysis)
Recent Career Highlights (2023–2024)
- 2023 County Stint with Lancashire: 27 wickets & 2 fifties, named MVP.
- 2024 Test Series vs England: Recalled after 3 years, taking 5/94 at Hyderabad.
- IPL 2024: Scored SRH’s fastest fifty (22 balls) by an Indian uncapped player.
Net Worth and Endorsements: The Calculated Rise
At 24, Sundar’s net worth is estimated at ₹25–30 crore ($3–3.6 million), driven by:
- Cricket Earnings: ₹18 crore (IPL, BCCI contracts, and county stints).
- Endorsements: ₹5–7 crore (deals with CEAT Tyres, SG Cricket, and Chennai Silks).
- Investments: Co-owns a Chennai-based sports tech startup and a vegan restaurant chain.
Endorsement Portfolio
| Brand | Deal Type | Since |
|---|---|---|
| CEAT Tyres | Campaign Ambassador | 2020 |
| SG Cricket | Bat & Gear Sponsor | 2022 |
| Chennai Silks | Brand Ambassador | 2023 |
Personal Life: The Philosopher of Focus
Sundar’s off-field persona is defined by introspection. A trained Carnatic vocalist, he meditates daily and reads Stoic philosophy. He funds cricket clinics for Chennai’s underprivileged and adopted 10 stray dogs. His Instagram (@washington.sundar) blends training clips, book recommendations, and temple visits.
Future Prospects: The Redemption Arc
With Ravindra Jadeja’s T20I retirement, Sundar eyes a permanent all-rounder slot.
What’s Next?
- 2024/25 Season: Target: 50+ international wickets and Test century.
- IPL 2025: Secure ₹12+ crore contract as SRH’s vice-captain.
- Global Leagues: PSG and BBL franchises in talks for 2025.
Conclusion: The Quiet Storm of Indian Cricket
Washington Sundar’s story isn’t about flash—it’s silent mastery. From Gabba’s glory to IPL’s shadows, he’s cricket’s unsung artisan. As IPL 2025 looms, Sundar isn’t chasing limelight; he’s crafting a legacy where grit outshines glamour. Whether stifling runs or rebuilding innings, he’s proof that resilience, not noise, writes history.
Cricket isn’t just a sport; it’s a playground for stories, and I’m here to tell them with humor, creativity, and a touch of flair. Whether it’s the thrill of an IPL last-over finish or the quirks of a rising star, my words bring the game alive for the next-gen audience. Like an unorthodox stroke that surprises the bowler, my take on cricket is anything but predictable. And if you ask what’s on my mind—well, cricket, always cricket! 🏏🔥
