Washington Sundar Responds with Wit After Being Ignored by Gill for 68 Overs

Washington Sundar responded with humour after being benched for 68 overs by skipper Shubman Gill during the Manchester Test. Though his late introduction raised eyebrows, Sundar remained composed, dismissing two batters quickly and defusing post-match questions. India's coaching staff defended the decision, citing pitch conditions and bowling strategy.

Washington Sundar broke his silence on being overlooked for 68 overs during England’s first innings in the fourth Test at Manchester, offering a witty yet reserved response when questioned about captain Shubman Gill’s decision-making.

Despite having taken a five-wicket haul in the previous Test, Sundar was not brought into the bowling attack until just before lunch on Day 3. When finally given the ball, he dismissed Ollie Pope and Harry Brook in quick succession, leaving many wondering why he wasn’t utilised earlier.

In a post-match conversation, when asked directly if his captain forgot he could bowl, Sundar laughed off the suggestion. “I'm not giving any headlines this time,” he joked, refusing to stir controversy. Commentators Stuart Broad and Nasser Hussain prodded him further, but Sundar kept it light, suggesting that he and Gill crossed paths often enough for the captain to notice him.

India's bowling coach Morne Morkel later explained the call. According to him, the team had opted to persist with seamers initially due to favourable conditions for swing and movement. Gill, aiming to exploit the new ball and keep pressure with pace, delayed spin options until the conditions became less conducive for fast bowling.

The decision, however, drew criticism from fans and experts, especially after Sundar’s immediate impact. His composed on-field performance and diplomatic post-match comments highlighted his professionalism amid swirling debate.

Also Read: Bihar Voter List Drive May Drop 6.5 Million Names, Sparks Legal and Political Storm

India’s fourth Test draw keeps the series alive, with the final match at The Oval set to determine if the visitors can level the contest. As discussions continue around captaincy decisions and team dynamics, Sundar’s restraint stands in sharp contrast to the noise around him.