Indian all-rounder Washington Sundar believes that captain Surya Kumar Yadav’s daring leadership and strategic decisions were key to India’s exciting victory in the last T20 match against Sri Lanka. Suryakumar’s unusual bowling choices were very important in helping India win this low-scoring T20 game on Tuesday. Sri Lanka seemed ready for an easy win, needing only 12 runs in the last two overs with six wickets still available. But Suryakumar brought in Rinku Singh for the second-to-last over, who did a great job by giving away just three runs and taking two wickets. Then, Suryakumar bowled the last over himself, taking two more wickets and surprising Sri Lanka. In the Super over, India quickly finished the match as Sri Lanka lost two wickets in four balls, and Suryakumar hit a boundary on the first ball to complete a perfect series win.
After the game, Sundar talked to the reporters and complimented Suryakumar’s ability to lead the team. He said, “Suryakumar is really great at leading. To be honest, his leadership skills are fantastic. When there were only 12 balls left and we needed 12 runs, he sent Rinku to the field, especially when Kusal Perera was batting, and Rinku managed to get him out. Then, Surya came in for the final over and helped us win the game.” Sundar also pointed out Suryakumar’s bravery and leadership, adding, “We all know he has a strong heart when he’s batting, but he shows the same strength in his leadership. He deserves all the praise; it was truly amazing.”
Sundar mentioned that Suryakumar always stressed the need to take wickets during the middle part of the game to keep the pressure on Sri Lanka, even when it seemed like the home team was in control of their chase.
“Surya repeatedly told us that getting one or two wickets in the middle overs could really turn the game around, particularly in low-scoring games where even scoring runs at a steady pace can put pressure on the other team,” Sundar explained. Looking back at the exciting match, Sundar said, “I hope the fans enjoyed watching the game because these kinds of matches don’t happen very often. It’s really exciting to be part of such a game.”
Sundar, who scored 25 runs and took two wickets, was both surprised and pleased to be selected to bowl during the Super Over. “To be honest, I didn’t expect to bowl, but after the batsmen went out, Surya looked at me and said, ‘Washy, it’s your turn.’ I was really happy; it’s a fantastic chance to help my team win. I’m glad everything worked out well,” he finished.
