In the ever-evolving spectacle of the Indian Premier League (IPL), players like Washington Sundar often represent the promise of excitement and unpredictability. Acquired by Gujarat Titans for INR 3.20 Crore, Sundar steps into the IPL 2025 season with a reputation bolstered by recent international performances. His journey in cricket has been one of steady growth, and there are strong indicators that this IPL season might just be his moment to shine on the grandest stage of T20 cricket.
Here are 2 compelling reasons why Washington Sundar could set IPL 2025 on fire.
The Turn and Control in His Bowling
One of the most significant aspects of Sundar’s game that has caught the eye in recent times is his bowling. His performances in Test cricket against New Zealand and during the Border-Gavaskar Trophy against Australia have been nothing short of spectacular. Sundar has shown an increased ability to turn the ball sharply, even on pitches that aren’t traditionally conducive to spin. His control over line and length, coupled with this newfound turn, makes him a potent threat in the T20 format.
In the Tests against New Zealand, Sundar was pivotal, taking wickets with both new and old ball, often in conditions that were challenging for spinners. His figures of 7/59 in an innings against New Zealand underscored his ability to dictate terms with his off-spin. This performance was no fluke, as he replicated this impact in the series against Australia, where he was seen to bowl with precision, varying his pace and trajectory to bamboozle even the best of the Aussie batsmen.
This ability to turn the ball, especially when bowling in the powerplay or at any stage of the innings, could be a game-changer for Gujarat Titans in IPL 2025. T20 cricket often demands quick thinking and adaptability from bowlers, and Sundar’s recent international outings have shown he’s equipped with both. His economical spells in the IPL, particularly his performance for Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) in IPL 2024, where he bowled tight lines, indicate that he can be a reliable asset in the middle overs, potentially stifling the opposition’s scoring rate when it matters most.
Batting Under Pressure
Washington Sundar’s contributions with the bat have often been underappreciated, but his recent performances in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy have brought this aspect of his game into sharp focus. In the 4th Test, when India was reeling at 221/7, Sundar, alongside Nitish Kumar Reddy, showed resilience and skill that went beyond mere statistics. Their partnership was not just about adding runs but about maintaining composure under pressure, a trait invaluable in the high-stakes environment of the IPL.
Sundar’s innings in that Test were a testament to his ability to read the game situation and adapt his batting style accordingly. His 62 runs in the first innings were crucial in ensuring India could avoid the follow-on and reduce the deficit. His technique against pace and spin, his strategic shot selection, and his ability to rotate the strike or find boundaries when needed, all speak to a maturity that belies his age.
This skill set is precisely what IPL teams look for in players who can bat in the lower middle order. Sundar has the potential to be that finisher or the calm head needed when the top order has faltered. His ability to stabilize the innings or accelerate when required was also evident during his stint with SRH in IPL 2024. Despite playing limited matches, his strike rate and the nature of his contributions suggest he’s ready to take on bigger roles.
Looking Forward IPL 2025 with Gujarat Titans
With Gujarat Titans, Sundar finds himself in a team that appreciates and utilizes all-rounders effectively. His price tag reflects the expectations and the trust placed in his capabilities. For IPL 2025, the combination of his bowling control and his batting under pressure could make him a central figure in GT’s strategy.
Gujarat’s home conditions at the Narendra Modi Stadium often assist spinners, which could play into Sundar’s strengths. Additionally, with the team looking to balance their squad with both Indian and overseas players, Sundar’s all-round skills provide flexibility in team selection and game planning.
Washington Sundar’s recent international achievements have set the stage for what could be a defining IPL season for him. His ability to turn the ball on any pitch and his knack for delivering under pressure with the bat are reasons enough to believe he might just set IPL 2025 alight. As GT looks to build a team that can defend their title or reclaim it, Sundar’s role will be pivotal. His journey from a promising youngster to a crucial team member is one to watch, as he could very well be the catalyst for many a victory in the upcoming IPL season. With talent, hard work, and now the platform, Sundar’s time to shine is here.
