Washington Sundar, a versatile cricketer known for his all-round abilities, has made a significant impact in the Indian Premier League (IPL) over the years. In IPL 2024, Washington Sundar continues to play a crucial role for his team. This article explores Washington Sundar’s current IPL team, his journey in the IPL, and how his performances have shaped his career.
Early Beginnings in the IPL
Washington Sundar began his IPL journey in IPL 2017, debuting as a teenager. Known for his off-spin and lower-order batting, he quickly earned a reputation as a reliable player. Rising Pune Supergiant selected him as a replacement for the injured Ravichandran Ashwin. At just 17 years old, Sundar displayed maturity beyond his years, bowling economically during power plays and contributing in critical matches.
In his maiden IPL season, Washington Sundar impressed with his economy rate and ability to take important wickets. In the 2017 final against Mumbai Indians, Sundar delivered tight overs during the power play, reinforcing his value as a promising T20 bowler. Although Pune narrowly missed the title, Washington Sundar’s performance stood out, leaving a lasting impression.
Washington Sundar’s IPL Journey
After the dissolution of Rising Pune Supergiant, Washington Sundar entered the IPL 2018 auction with a growing reputation. Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) bought him, and he became an essential part of their bowling attack over the next few seasons. Washington Sundar’s IPL history with RCB highlights his ability to maintain control during the power play, where many bowlers struggle.
Throughout his time at RCB, Washington Sundar transitioned from being just a power-play bowler to a reliable all-rounder. His batting added depth to the lower order, although his primary focus remained his bowling. Sundar consistently delivered crucial breakthroughs or maintained tight control with his economy rate, making him a key figure for RCB. Playing alongside legends like Virat Kohli and AB de Villiers also contributed to his growth as a player.
While Washington Sundar consistently proved his mettle, he also faced challenges. Injuries and occasional dips in form tested his resolve, but he repeatedly bounced back, proving his worth and resilience.
Washington Sundar’s Current IPL Team in 2024
In IPL 2024, Washington Sundar plays for Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH). He joined SRH in IPL 2022, marking a new chapter in his career and offering him greater opportunities to showcase his all-round talents. Washington Sundar’s current IPL team relies heavily on his contributions, both as a bowler and a lower-order batsman, making him a key player.
During IPL 2024, Washington Sundar continues to shine in the Sunrisers Hyderabad squad. His experience and expertise make him a critical asset, particularly in the middle overs when his economical bowling can control the game’s momentum. SRH’s strategy emphasizes all-rounders and strong bowlers, and Sundar fits perfectly into this approach. His batting contributions, often understated, have added vital runs to the team’s total, increasing his value.
SRH retained Washington Sundar for IPL 2024, signaling their belief in his abilities. His role in Washington Sundar’s current IPL team extends beyond individual performances, as he also serves as a mentor for younger players, guiding them in high-pressure situations.
Key Moments in Washington Sundar’s IPL Journey
Reflecting on Washington Sundar’s IPL history, several key moments highlight his importance. His first season with Rising Pune Supergiant remains one of his most memorable, especially his standout spell against Mumbai Indians in the 2017 final. Sundar bowled with precision, dismissing key batsmen and helping restrict Mumbai’s score, although Pune narrowly lost the match.
Another notable moment in Washington Sundar’s IPL journey occurred during the IPL 2020 season in the UAE. On the slower pitches, Sundar’s bowling became even more crucial, and he delivered consistently with an economy rate of 5.96 in the tournament’s early stages. His contribution played a significant role in RCB’s journey to the playoffs, where he repeatedly rose to the occasion.
However, Washington Sundar also faced setbacks. Injuries during the 2021 season prevented him from participating in crucial matches for RCB, and the team felt his absence. Sundar’s perseverance and commitment to recovery allowed him to return stronger, ultimately leading to his move to Sunrisers Hyderabad.
Washington Sundar’s Role in IPL 2024
In IPL 2024, Washington Sundar takes on a vital role for Sunrisers Hyderabad. His dual responsibility as a spinner and a lower-order batsman makes him an indispensable player in the squad. Sundar’s primary job remains to bowl economically and break key partnerships during the middle overs. However, his contributions with the bat, whether stabilizing the innings or providing quick runs, also add significant depth to the team’s lineup.
The Sunrisers Hyderabad team management recognizes Sundar’s value in a format where all-rounders are essential. His consistent economy rate, particularly in the power play, makes him a weapon in SRH’s bowling arsenal. In IPL 2024, Washington Sundar’s performances will play a crucial role in determining SRH’s success.
Washington Sundar’s ability to adapt to various match scenarios has become one of his defining traits. Whether he’s bowling in power plays, middle overs, or even at the death, Washington Sundar’s IPL team knows they can count on him to deliver. His journey from a teenage prodigy to a reliable all-rounder has been remarkable, and IPL 2024 provides another opportunity for him to build on that legacy.
Conclusion: Washington Sundar’s IPL Legacy
Washington Sundar’s IPL journey showcases his growth as one of the most dependable players in the league. From his debut with Rising Pune Supergiant to his current role with Sunrisers Hyderabad, Sundar has evolved into a versatile all-rounder. His journey includes match-winning performances, moments of brilliance, and his ability to overcome challenges.
In IPL 2024, Washington Sundar remains a pivotal player for Sunrisers Hyderabad, a team that appreciates his all-round abilities. As he continues to contribute to the team’s success, Sundar’s legacy in the IPL only grows stronger. His experience and skills make him a key figure in SRH’s lineup, and cricket fans can look forward to seeing more impactful performances from him.
Washington Sundar’s story in the IPL is far from over. His experience, talent, and calm demeanor under pressure ensure that he will continue to shape Sunrisers Hyderabad’s fortunes in IPL 2024 and beyond.
