Ravi Shastri has thrown his weight behind Washington Sundar, calling him India’s next “genuine” Test all-rounder. At just 25, the Tamil Nadu off-spinner has already shown glimpses of his immense potential with both bat and ball — especially in Indian conditions where his bowling turns lethal.

Washington first made headlines during the iconic Gabba Test in 2021, but since then, his red-ball appearances have been sporadic. In 11 Tests, he has scored 545 runs and taken 30 wickets — numbers that reflect promise but also hint at missed opportunities. Shastri, speaking on The ICC Review, expressed surprise at Sundar’s limited Test outings so far.

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“I always loved Washington. When I saw him on day one, I said he’s the man. And he can be a genuine all-rounder for many, many years for India,” Ravi Shastri said. He emphasised that Sundar’s effectiveness in turning Indian tracks should’ve earned him more matches, recalling how he out-bowled seasoned spinners against New Zealand earlier this year.

In that 2024 home series against the Kiwis, Sundar ended as the joint-highest wicket-taker, scalping 16 wickets in just four innings. Shastri believes Sundar’s batting talent is equally underutilised. “He’s not a No. 8. He’s got the technique and temperament to bat at No. 6.”

Sundar has backed up that faith in the current England series. At Lord’s, he turned the tide for India with a stunning 4/22 in the second innings, removing top guns like Joe Root, Ben Stokes, and Jamie Smith.

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Shastri concluded by highlighting Sundar’s attributes that make him effective beyond Indian shores. “He’s got drift, pace, strong fingers, and the fitness to bowl long spells. Once confidence sets in, he can do the job both as a wicket-taker and a controller, even overseas.”