Washington Sundar calls National Team call up "dream come true"

Sundar was expecting his call-up to the national squad in October but he failed to clear the yo-yo test which resulted in him having to wait a couple of more months for his dream to come true. Ahead of the all-important South Africa series, selectors decided to hand regular players some rest for the limited overs series against Sri Lanka. 

“It is a dream come true for me. Not many teenagers get an opportunity to play for the country and I consider myself fortunate. Every practice session I attended was with the aim of playing for India some day,” Washington told The Hindu on Monday.

The 18-year-old admitted that he was expecting the news of his selection in the team and revealed that he was disappointed when he failed to clear the hurdle at the first chance and missed the opportunity to play against Australia.

“The fact that I missed out playing against a team like Australia hurt me, but I willed my way through that period. It was difficult but I did not lose belief.”

The all-rounder played 12 first-class matches in which he scored 532 runs and claimed 30 wickets. Sundar's ability to perform in both the shortest format and in the four-day format at such a young age has made him an automatic selection in the side. His turning point of his career arrived when he got the chance to play for Rising Pune Supergiant, alongside MS Dhoni, after Ravichandran Ashwin had been sidelined due to injury. He grabbed his opportunity with both hands and ended up claiming 8 wickets in 11 matches. 

“I could walk up to him (Dhoni) for his advice even during his off hours. He would gladly share his thoughts with me, sort out my problems, give me valuable suggestions.

“Behind the stumps, he would always encourage me. I am so happy I am joining the Indian squad when he is in the team,” he said.