I love bowling. It is just about me being ready when the opportunity comes: Washington Sundar

Washington Sundar has this ability to produce something special when he is given an opportunity. Remember his innings on Test debut, four years ago, that turned India’s most famous chase around?

After playing just nine games in the last couple of IPL seasons, for Sunrisers Hyderabad, he made his debut for Gujarat Titans against his former side at Hyderabad a couple of days ago. Coming down at No. 4, after the early loss of two in-form batters B. Sai Sudarshan and Jos Buttler, he made a 29-ball 49 – his highest IPL score — to help his new team score a seven-wicket victory.

“It felt amazing to contribute to the team’s victory, and getting to bat at No. 4 was a great opportunity, thanks to the coach,” Washington said on the eve of GT’s match against Rajasthan Royals. “I had a good time in the middle and was able to do the things that I was supposed to do.”

After making a sudden impact with the bat, the off-spinning all-rounder is looking forward to getting a ball (which he didn’t against SRH). “I love bowling,” he said, smiling. “It is just about me being ready when the opportunity comes and picking up a few wickets.”

Rajasthan Royals’ fast bowling coach Shane Bond believes it will be a challenging game. “It is a pretty intimidating atmosphere here, but it is a fun atmosphere,” he said. “We have come in here with a great deal of confidence.”