Veteran commentator Aakash Chopra has applauded Washington Sundar for bowling a stunning spell after suddenly being added to Team India’s playing XI for the second Test against New Zealand in Pune. He also added that the off-spinner was nearly unstoppable once Rohit Sharma changed his end as well. However, Sundar registered figures of 7/59 in 23.1 overs, as India bowled New Zealand out for 259 in their first innings as well.

While reviewing the game on Colors Cineplex, Aakash Chopra said,  “It was extremely impressive, very interesting and very exciting as well because you were suddenly para-dropped. You were not part of this series and there would have been some reason why you weren’t there. Four other spinners were already present but you were brought in and played. The start was not good and there were a few more questions on your selection. However, then you changed your end. The story changed completely once the end was changed because he picked up seven wickets from that end.”

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In the same discussion, Aakash Chopra also opined on whether only the end change made a difference or if there was any visible changes in Washington Sundar’s bowling.

“When you saw him bowl at the start, he wasn’t that consistent. He wasn’t bowling continuously at the same spot. Since he got a chance to play Test cricket after such a long time, it takes time sometimes. There are butterflies in the stomach which trouble you a little. However, he got a little time to think after that. The end was changed and then things just fell into place. All 11 wickets today fell from that end. I feel he was more consistent and he rarely bowled lengths where the batters could play off the back foot. As a spinner, you are at your best when you force the batter to play all balls on the front foot,” Aakash Chopra concluded.