Former Indian cricketer WV Raman has raised concerns over India’s failure to fully harness the potential of all-rounder Washington Sundar. Raman asserts that despite possessing remarkable batting and bowling abilities, Sundar has not received the opportunities or encouragement he rightfully deserves.
Sundar, who was part of the Indian team that contested the Asia Cup final, has recently found himself overshadowed by the seasoned Ravichandran Ashwin in the ODI series against Australia. Raman contends that Sundar’s underutilization stems from a lack of trust, a situation that he believes must change given Sundar’s attributes as a promising all-rounder.
Speaking to TOI during the Asian Games 2023, WV Raman expressed his thoughts on Washington Sundar. “We have been discussing the lack of all-round players, but Washington Sundar is a very strong candidate. Sadly, despite the fact that he repeatedly showed his batting abilities in all forms during the little opportunities he had, he is not being supported. We must make every effort to make the best use of the resources we have. Only then, even amid difficult circumstances, will we be able to obtain what we require,” he said.
While India holds the status of favorites to secure the gold medal in men’s cricket at the Asian Games, WV Raman has issued a cautionary warning. He advises them against complacency. He points out that teams like Bangladesh and Afghanistan possess considerable talent and could spring surprises.
“Even if the other nations resorted to sending a few cricketers who had previously played for their senior team, there were still great players competing in that Emerging Asia Cup. These nations, including Bangladesh and Afghanistan, offer a wealth of talent. The Indian side will thus pay a steep price if our boys, by which I mean them, get a little too complacent,” he concluded.