Ganesh Kendale
NEW DELHI: Rising Indian all-rounder Washington Sundar secured the team’s behind-the-scenes ‘Impact Fielder’ Award for his outstanding performance during the recently concluded T20I series against Bangladesh.
Washington edged out Hardik Pandya and Riyan Parag for the accolade. Fielding coach T Dilip praised Washington’s remarkable improvement, noting he appeared as a “different” player regarding his fielding.
Sanju Samson’s spectacular century propelled India to a record total of 297, securing a dominant 133-run win against Bangladesh.This victory completed India’s 3-0 T20I series win and a comprehensive 5-0 sweep of both the Test and T20I series against Bangladesh.
Dilip highlighted his top contender, Hardik Pandya, comparing his energy on the field to “a Formula 1 car in top gear.”
Riyan Parag was the second contender, recognized for his knack for “making catches look simple.”
On Parag, the coach remarked: “When it comes to cutting angles and saving runs, he makes catches look so simple. I love the way he feels bad when he misses those one-percent chances on the field. Riyan Parag, contender number two. Hats off to the composure with which he takes those catches.”
Washington secured the award for his “precision at the boundary line.”
He took three catches during the series and maintained a brilliant economy rate of just five runs per over.
“He’s been exceptional when it comes to anticipation and cutting angles in the field. Every time you come here, you try to improve. I’ve seen a different Washington Sundar this time around,” T Dilip said.
T Dilip, standing beside head coach Gautam Gambhir, also praised the collective spirit of the team.
“When intent meets energy, the eagerness to convert every ball into an opportunity increases. We were phenomenal in that aspect during this series.”
“Whether it was cutting angles, dealing with the low light, or facing the challenges posed by all the grounds, our adaptability and anticipation were exceptional,” Dilip emphasized.
“This kind of aggressive approach is what matters to us. But I was elated to see the brotherhood- whether an error happened or a brilliant catch was taken. People were out there, clapping and supporting each other. That’s what we are: we work as a team, and we win as a team.”
Jitesh Sharma presented the glittering medal to Washington, who expressed his gratitude.
“This honestly feels amazing. I try and give my 100 percent whenever I am on the field. And everyone can contribute on the field, no matter what is the situation. Very very grateful for this, thanks to T Dilip sir and the entire support staff.”
India’s next challenge is a three-Test home series against New Zealand starting in Bengaluru on October 16. This will be followed by a four-match T20I series in South Africa next month.
