After being called up for the first time to India’s red-ball team for the five-match Test series against England, Sai Sudharsan explained how his teammate Washington Sundar’s performances on the big stage had inspired him even more.
For the Asian giants, Sai Sudharsan might bat at No. 3 in the forthcoming series, which starts on Friday, June 20. Ravindra Jadeja and Kuldeep Yadav are also contenders for a berth in the starting XI, so Sundar will have to fight for it.
Sundar and Sai Sudharsan are shown discussing their connection throughout the years in a film released by the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI). The star batsman claimed that despite their less than two-year age difference, Sundar has been his “inspiration.”
The batter responded by laughing when Sundar gave him his blessings. Sai Sudharsan is also seen making fun of Sundar’s Tamil accent following his interview. Seeing how humiliated Sundar was, the spin-bowling all-rounder responded, “Stop it, let’s go.”
I would like to know what accent that is. Sai Sudharsan queries.
“I’ve been inspired by Sundar.” Since I’ve faced him in a few games, it’s always unique. I had worked out with him a few of times, and I was impressed by how quickly he rose to the occasion and performed for the nation. That’s what I was thinking of. It was wonderful to meet him. He played for the nation after doing well in the IPL for a few years. For me, it served as a powerful incentive. I was inspired to follow in his footsteps after playing with him and getting to know him when I was a young child in Chennai. “So he’s been my inspiration,” he stated in the bcci.tv video.
Since the two play for the Gujarat Titans, an Indian Premier League (IPL) team, Sundar has watched Sudharsan grow as a player up close. This year, the opener won the Orange Cap for the first time, finishing ahead of many seasoned players, including Shubman Gill, Suryakumar Yadav, and Virat Kohli.
He has discussed that with me on numerous occasions, and many of my friends and instructors have also frequently discussed his development as a cricket player. He’s always improved, but he’s gotten better every year, especially in the last three to four years. If that is the case, I believe that every time I watch him on television, I learn a lot from him. His skill sets and work ethic have undoubtedly inspired many children, particularly in Chennai, and I have no doubt that he will continue to inspire countless others worldwide. “I’m so happy for him,” Sundar remarked.
Sai Sudharsan, 23, has so far represented India in three ODIs and one T20I. The 25-year-old Sundar has played for the Men in Blue in nine Test matches, 23 ODIs, and 54 T20Is. The forthcoming five-match series is anticipated to feature a significant role from the Tamil Nadu pair.
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