Washington Sundar becomes the youngest T20I player for India

With India dominating the home season like it never has before, it is the best time to test the young players and their quality at the highest level. Selection of young players shows that a good domestic season means a national call-up is just round the corner. It will increase the competition level in the domestic format with each player determined to outperform the other. Selectors cannot ignore fresh and young talent who are waiting to make an impact for their country.

On Sunday, Washington Sundar became the youngest T20I player to represent India at the International level. He was just 18 years and 80 days old when he bowled his first delivery against Sri Lanka. Sundar is the 72nd T20I player to feature for India. He is the eleventh youngest cricketer in T20 Internationals all over the world.

Sundar’s rise

To represent his country at such a young age speaks volumes of his talent and ability to contribute to his team. With India already winning the series, Sundar was handed his cap by Sarandeep Singh, member of the BCCI selection committee. The IPL 2017 was a breakthrough season for Sundar as he picked 8 wickets in 11 games for Rising Pune Supergiant. His economy rate of 6.16 especially after bowling most of his overs in the power play caught the eyes of the selectors.

Sundar also had a memorable season in Tamil Nadu Premier League(TNPL) where he finished as the highest run-getter and the third highest wicket-taker. He scored 459 runs at a staggering average of 76.50 and took 15 wickets in 9 innings. These numbers are too good for an 18-year-old at any level and he knew that the national call-up was just around.

Representing India at the biggest level is a dream for domestic players. Washington Sundar would not have expected to make his ODI and T20I debut at such an early age. He has to make the most of this opportunity as several players are itching for a call-up. There is no pressure on him with India having won the series already.

Table: Youngest players to represent Indian team in T20Is

Stats updated on 24th December 2017