India all-rounder Washington Sundar reckons captain Suryakumar Yadav’s bold leadership and strategic risk-taking helped India secure a thrilling win in the third and final T20I against Sri Lanka. Suryakumar’s unconventional bowling choices played a crucial role in securing a remarkable win for India in a low-scoring T20I on Tuesday. Sri Lanka appeared poised for an easy win, needing just 12 runs from the final two overs with six wickets in hand.
However, Suryakumar introduced Rinku Singh in the penultimate over, who delivered an exceptional 1-0-3-2. Suryakumar then bowled the final over himself, taking two more wickets and leaving Sri Lanka stunned. In the Super Over, India quickly wrapped up the match as Sri Lanka lost two wickets in four balls, and Suryakumar hit a boundary off the first ball to clinch a series clean sweep.
Speaking to the media after the match, Sundar praised Suryakumar’s leadership, stating, “It’s amazing of him, amazing of his leadership skills, to be honest. With 12 balls to go and 12 runs needed, he brought in Rinku, especially with Kusal Perera batting, and Rinku got him out. Surya then came in for the last over and won the game for us.” Sundar highlighted Suryakumar’s courage and leadership, noting, “We all know he has a big heart when he bats, but he also shows it in his leadership. All credit goes to him; it was amazing.”
Sundar also shared that Suryakumar consistently emphasized the importance of taking wickets during the middle overs to maintain pressure on Sri Lanka, even when the hosts seemed in control of the chase. “Surya kept telling us that one or two wickets in the middle overs would change the game, especially in low-scoring matches where even run-a-ball situations can create pressure,” Sundar said. Reflecting on the thrilling encounter, Sundar added, “I hope the audience enjoyed the game because you don’t often see such matches. It feels great to be a part of this kind of game.”
Sundar, who contributed 25 runs and took two wickets, expressed surprise and delight at being chosen to bowl the Super Over. “Honestly, I had no idea I would bowl, but after the batsmen walked out, Surya turned to me and said, ‘Washy, you’re on.’ I was very happy; it’s a great opportunity to step up and win the game for my country. Thank God things went well,” he concluded.
