Sai Sudharsan reveals how he got inspired from his 'mentor' Washington Sundar

Sai Sudharsan and Washington Sundar are both in India’s squad for the England test series.

Washington Sundar, a fellow Chennai player, has been an inspiration to young India batsman Sai Sudharsan, who received his first call-up to the country’s test squad for the forthcoming five-match test series against England.

The 23-year-old Sudharsan, who has already represented India in three ODIs and one T20I and recorded two ODI half-centuries in South Africa, might begin his test career with the opening test match against England at Headingley in Leeds, starting from June 20.

He recently scored 759 runs in 16 innings, including a century and six half-centuries, while playing for the Gujarat Titans (GT) in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025, earning him the Orange Cap for most runs and the ‘Emerging Player’ title.

“He has been my inspiration since I was young”—Sai Sudharsan on Washington Sundar

In an emotional statement released by the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), Sudharsan, a calm left-hander, expressed his respect for Sundar.

In domestic cricket, Sundar, an all-rounder who made his first-class debut in 2016 at the age of 17. Six years later, at the age of 21, Sudharsan made his debut.

Speaking about how he looked up to Sundar, who made his test debut in 2021 during the historic Brisbane test against Australia and made his international debut as a teenager in 2017, Sudharsan remarked that Sundar’s rapid ascent was an “inspiration” and “motivator” for him.

“He has been my inspiration since I was young. I have played a few games against him, so it is always special. To be honest, we have looked up to him a lot. I have practiced once or twice (against Sundar). The way he went up and the way he played for the country were really quick, so I had that in my mind. He did well in the IPL, and then he played for the country. So it was a great motivator for me from Chennai. Knowing him since I was young and playing with him is kind of inspiring. It made me feel I want to do things the same way,” Sudharsan said in the BCCI video.

Sai has inspired a lot of kids in Chennai – Washington Sundar

Sundar says he has already inspired many children in Chennai and is quite proud of the children’s development over the years.

“I have watched him on TV. There is a lot to take away from him, his skill set, and the work ethic he has. He has inspired a lot of kids in Chennai, and I hope he will continue inspiring kids all over the world.

“He has told me about that quite a few times. A lot of my friends and coaches, as well, have spoken about his growth. He has only grown in the last three or four years and has gotten better with every year,” Sundar said.

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India’s tour of England will take place from June to August 2025, with matches to be played at Headingley (Leeds), Edgbaston (Birmingham), Lord’s (London), Old Trafford (Manchester), and The Oval (London).

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