CHENNAI: Despite having the best city-league structure in the country, Tamil Nadu had a forgettable domestic season. But that has not deterred the national selectors from rewarding notable talents from the state.Dinesh Karthik, Vijay Shankar and Washington Sundar have been named in the India team for their T20I tri-series in Sri Lanka which also involves Bangladesh.
While Karthik will be the first-choice keeper in the absence of MS Dhoni (who opted out, requesting rest), Vijay comes in for Hardik Pandya, and Washington Sundar has taken Kuldeep Yadav’s place.This was the Tamil Nadu captain’s first national call-up in the shortest format. “It feels good. The format does not matter; representing the country is a great honour. If given an opportunity to play, I will give it my best shot.”
Comparisons between Vijay and Pandya will certainly be there, and the genial Tamil Nadu all-rounder does not want to put any extra pressure on himself. “I am going in with an open mind, and I’ll take things as they come. I don’t want to think too far ahead. My plan is to take it one match at a time and give my 100 per cent.”
Vijay had to pull out of the last round of the Vijay Hazare Trophy due to side strain, but now he’s raring to go. “I am 100 per cent fit. I’ve been in Delhi for the last couple of days, attending the Delhi Daredevils camp. I am feeling good at the moment.”
Washington, who made his ODI and T20I debut against Sri Lanka last year, is pleased to be back in the scheme of things. “I am delighted to be back in the team. I just want to go out and enjoy my game. Tamil Nadu didn’t have the best of seasons this time, but to have three players from the state in the national team shows that we have talent.”
It was after impressing with the Rising Pune Supergiant in IPL that made people notice the all-rounder’s on-field utility. But with wrist-spinners coming into vogue, how does Washington see the challenge?
“Bowling in shorter formats is a challenge for any spinner. Both Yuzvendra Chahal and Kuldeep have adapted, and have done exceptionally well. Having said that, I am confident of my abilities. If given an opportunity, I will try my best and deliver.’’
India Squad for SL t20I tri-series
Rohit Sharma (c), Shikhar Dhawan (vc), KL Rahul, Suresh Raina, Manish Pandey, Dinesh Karthik (wk), Deepak Hooda, Washington Sundar, Yuzvendra Chahal, Axar Patel, Vijay Shankar, Shardul Thakur, Jaydev Unadkat, Mohammad Siraj, Rishabh Pant (wk).
ashok.v@newindianexpress.com