Former Indian leg-spinner Anil Kumble was not impressed by Sunrisers Hyderabad’s decision to drop Washington Sundar from the initial playing 11 in favour of Abhishek Sharma. The 23-year-old was brought back in the 2nd innings as an impact player for England’s Harry Brook.
It looked like the management was not impressed with Washington Sundar’s performance in the three games, as they drafted Abhishek Sharma into the team. Speaking at the Jiocinema, about the 2016 Champions’ decision to drop the Indian Spinner, Anil Kumble said that he wanted to both youngsters to play for the team.
“Washington Sundar should have been there. Yes, he did not perform up to his potential in the first 3 games. But, he should have been there. Yes, Abhishek Sharma is a good addition. I wanted both these Indian players who are exceptionally talented in the side,” Anil Kumble said
Abhishek Sharma 32(17), who came replaced Washington Sundar played a brilliant cameo alongside Harry Brook, to take, the visitors reached 228/4 at the end of 20 overs. Washington came in the 2nd innings and bowled 2 overs to concede 20 runs and took the important catches of Nitish Rana and Shardul Thakur.
Washington Sundar has been a good off-spinner with very handy batting potential and is also an impeccable fielder. In T20 cricket, Sundar is an excellent defensive bowler who has a knack for picking up important wickets. His Indian Premier League (IPL) record speaks for itself – 33 wickets in 55 matches at an economy rate of just 7.34.
“We Know How Good A Finisher He Is” – Anil Kumble Lauds Rahul Tewatia
Former Punjab King’s head coach Anil Kumble heaped praise on Gujarat Titans all-rounder Rahul Tewatia for his exceptional finishing against Punjab Kings. The 29-year-old stayed calm and composed against Punjab Kings pacer Sam Curran in the last over to finish the match for the defending champions.
“Tewatia, we know how good a finisher he is. He moved perfectly well, he knew where the fielder was, he knew what shot to play, and knew what was coming as well. Well down, Tewatia, well done Gujarat Titans. However, there would have been a lot of butterflies for GT for taking it till the end,” Anil Kumble added.
The Gujarat Titans all-rounder held his nerve in the last over to chase down the total against Punjab Kings. With 4 runs to win in the final two balls, he played a paddled sweep to win the third match for the Titans side.
The defending champions Gujarat Titans will take on Rajasthan Royals in their 5th league match at the home ground–Narendra Modi Stadium on April 16.