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Washington Sundar justified his selection with a stunning display of spin bowling on the opening day of the second Test against New Zealand at the Maharashtra Cricket Association Stadium in Pune. The all-rounder, whose inclusion had been a hot topic of discussion before the match, delivered his best-ever first-class figures of 7/59, helping India bowl out New Zealand for 259 and giving the hosts a significant upper hand going into the second day.
Washington Sundar changes the game with key wickets
New Zealand appeared to be in a solid position at 197/3, with well-set fifties from Devon Conway and Rachin Ravindra, before Washington was introduced into the attack for a crucial spell. He quickly turned the game on its head, starting with a wicket just before the tea break. From there, he decimated the rest of the Kiwi batting line-up, showing incredible control and variation. Washington’s spell was instrumental, as he took all seven remaining wickets, changing the complexion of the game and putting India in a commanding position.
The young spinner mixed his deliveries with subtle changes in speed and flight, creating doubts in the minds of the batters. It was a classic display of off-spin bowling, where he not only capitalized on the spin-friendly conditions but also maintained tight lines to frustrate the opposition.
Also READ: Washington Sundar rips through New Zealand with career-best 7-wicket haul in Pune Test
Washington bowls a beauty to dismiss Tim Southee
One of the standout moments from Washington’s exceptional spell was the dismissal of Tim Southee, which underscored his sharp cricketing acumen. On the first ball of the 76th over, Washington delivered a superb arm ball from around the wicket. The ball drifted past Southee’s outside edge as he attempted a defensive shot, before crashing into the stumps. The deceptive delivery demonstrated Washington’s ability to mix his lines and lengths, outwitting a well-experienced batter like Southee.
The dismissal was a testament to Washington’s skillful execution, as he lured Southee into playing a shot with subtle drift and turn, a technique that paid off spectacularly. The video of this dismissal has been widely shared, showcasing the young spinner’s clever use of variations.
Here is the video:
Vera level Washy! 🫡
A terrific fifer for the off-spinner 🖐️#INDvNZ #IDFCFirstBankTestTrophy #JioCinemaSports #WashingtonSundar pic.twitter.com/iVx8Ee2owp
— JioCinema (@JioCinema) October 24, 2024
Washington’s performance gives India an advantage
Washington’s bowling masterclass has altered the dynamics of the match, giving India a crucial advantage. With his career-best figures, he silenced critics and more than justified his inclusion in the playing XI. The performance has not only bolstered India’s chances in this Test but also added a new dimension to India’s spin attack.
