Washington Sundar’s father reveals origin of the all-rounder’s name

Washington Sundar became one of the IPL 2017's biggest finds as he helped the erstwhile Rising Pune Supergiant reach the final, which they only narrowly lost to the Mumbai Indians. Along with his bowling, the 17-year-old had another factor which helped him make waves - his unconventional name. His father, M.Sundar, explained why the player was given his name in an interview to a leading Indian media daily.

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A tribute to a great man

M.Sundar revealed that while growing up, he was not from a well-to-do family and wanted to be a cricketer himself. At one juncture of his life, P.D. Washington, a former Indian Army soldier, walked into M.Sundar's life. Mr. Washington, who lived near Mr. Sundar, was very fond of cricket and used to even watch the latter play. He also supported Mr. Sundar by buying him school supplies, paying his fees and helping him travel. His son was born in 1999 after his wife underwent a tough delivery process. Mr. Sundar decided to name his son, Washington, as a tribute to Mr. Washington, who was vital to his own development. Washington Sundar was born in 1999 but unfortunately, Mr. Washington had passed away by that time. 

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Spectacular potential for Indian cricket

Washington Sundar rose to prominence after he was picked up by the Rising Pune Supergiant in the 2017 IPL. Sundar played 11 matches for RPS in that season and took eight wickets with the best figures of 3/16. He currently plays for the Royal Challengers Bangalore. He debuted for India later that year and has shown sparks of brilliance in the 13 T20I matches he has played for the country so far.

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The Tamil Nadu mystery spinner has picked up 12 wickets in the 13 matches he has played with his best bowling figures being 3/22. Australian great Dean Jones is reportedly a big admirer of Sundar's ability as he has spoken about him prior to Bangladesh's T20Is against India in November to the official broadcaster of the series. Jones commended Washington's economy rates and powerplay spells, hoping that the all-rounder ends up staying in the team even after Ravindra Jadeja returns to the playing XI.

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