Another feather in the cap for Washington Sundar
September 8, 2017
After an impressive run in the IPL, Washington Sundar continued in the same vein in the TNPL finishing as the highest run-scorer with 459 and the second highest wicket-taker with 15.
On Thursday, there was yet another feather added to his cap after he was named in the Board President’s team that will take on Australia in the practice game ahead of the limited-overs series starting September 17.
The 17-year-old, who played under Australian skipper Steve Smith for Rising Pune Supergiant, said, “I am happy to be selected. I have played a lot with Steve Smith and I am looking forward to playing against him.
“I am also happy the performances from Vijay Hazare and Deodhar Trophy is being looked at.”
Shah rewarded
Another beneficiary of good performances in the domestic one-dayers was Tamil Nadu left-arm spinner Rahil Shah, who was also named in the 14-member squad.
Shah was the third highest wicket-taker with 16 in the Vijay Hazare Trophy and picked up six more in the Deodhar competitions in which TN emerged victorious.
Shah said he was elated to be selected to play against an international team in Chepauk.
“I am really happy that performances in Vijay Hazare and Deodhar Trophy have been recognised,” said Shah.
He also credited the spin camp in June last year under Narendra Hirwani that helped him. “We bowled a lot for two weeks there and he gave a lot of ideas. But he also said that not everything needs to be implemented and told us to take whatever works for us.”
To add more local flavour, former India and Tamil Nadu player Hemang Badani will coach the side. Badani recently coached TNPL side Chepauk Super Gillies to the title this year after losing out in the first edition.
Due recognition
Badani, coach of the Duleep Trophy side three years back, said, “I am glad that people have recognised my ability and given me this opportunity.
“ I am looking forward to interacting with the boys like Washington Sundar, who has had a good IPL and TNPL, and see what are the things that work so well for him.”
