Washington Sundar is set to replace Ravichandran Ashwin as India’s frontline off-spinner in the upcoming home Tests against West Indies. Childhood coach M. Senthilnathan says Sundar is “perfectly fitting” into Ashwin’s role alongside Ravindra Jadeja.
As India gears up for their first home Test series since Ravichandran Ashwin’s retirement in December 2024, a new chapter in Indian cricket is set to begin. The two-match series against the West Indies in Ahmedabad marks the beginning of life after Ashwin, and all eyes are on Washington Sundar to step into the big shoes left behind by one of India’s greatest ever spinners.
Sundar, who recently impressed during a stint with Hampshire in the county championship, has already made a statement with his performances on the England tour earlier this year. A full bowling session at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad has almost confirmed his place in the playing eleven, with fans and selectors eager to see how he carries the baton forward.
For M. Senthilnathan, Washington’s childhood coach at the MRF Academy in Chennai, this moment was always inevitable. “He’s perfectly fitting in the role of what Ashwin did for so long with Jadeja. Normally replacements don’t come that easily, but Washington has been in the scheme of things for four-five years now. It looks very strong when Washington and Jadeja are there in the team,” Senthilnathan said, recalling the prodigy he spotted as a 13-year-old.
England Tour: The Breakthrough Moment
India’s Test series win in England highlighted Sundar’s readiness. At Old Trafford, he batted for 206 balls alongside Ravindra Jadeja to produce an unbeaten 101, rescuing India from defeat and showcasing his temperament. At The Oval, he followed it up with a priceless 53 off 46 balls, including four towering sixes, giving India the runs they needed to defend against England’s aggressive “Bazball” style.
These knocks displayed not only his batting prowess but also his cricketing intelligence. From restraint when batting with the last man to calculated aggression when runs were required, Sundar’s adaptability shone through.
Overcoming Setbacks
Washington’s journey hasn’t been easy. After his memorable Gabba heroics in 2021, he struggled with recurring injuries—finger, hamstring, shoulder—that kept him away from the Test side more often than not. With Ashwin holding the off-spinner’s slot, Sundar had limited opportunities.
Yet, Senthilnathan constantly reminded him to be patient. “It used to be so sad. He was injured so often, but I kept telling him, ‘Your time will come. Injury is not in your hands. Just keep performing in domestic cricket.’ He handled it well and prepared mentally for the chance he now has,” his coach revealed.
A Strong Mindset
What separates Sundar from others, according to his mentor, is his quiet resilience. “He’s a strong-headed boy. His aggression doesn’t come from his mouth or actions—it’s all in his mind. He doesn’t give his wicket away easily and stays focused despite attempts to unsettle him,” Senthilnathan explained.
That focus has been visible throughout Sundar’s career, from his surprise 62 at the Gabba to his match-turning seven-wicket haul against New Zealand in Pune last year. Every performance reaffirmed his ability to deliver on the biggest stage.
Carrying Forward the Ashwin Legacy
Being the sole off-spinner in India’s eleven is a demanding task. Ashwin excelled at maintaining pressure and exploiting conditions, and Sundar must now show that he can do the same. With the Ahmedabad pitch expected to be less spin-friendly due to recent damp weather, Sundar’s adaptability will be tested immediately.
The West Indies, though not at their strongest, provide the stage for him to prove his consistency and skill. His partnership with Jadeja will be central to India’s plans, much like the Ashwin-Jadeja duo that dominated world cricket for over a decade.
Looking Ahead
For Washington, every game will now be a test of his ability to lead India’s spin attack. “There is nothing like you should relax. Every game should feel like it’s the first. That’s how you succeed,” Senthilnathan advised.
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As India embarks on this new era, Washington Sundar is no longer a backup option—he is the frontline spinner expected to shape the team’s future, much like Ashwin did before him. With patience, resilience, and the quiet determination that has defined his career so far, Sundar stands ready to carry the legacy forward.
