Despite a challenging situation in the second Test against South Africa, Washington Sundar remains optimistic, emphasizing the need for the Indian team to maintain a positive outlook. South Africa established a significant first-innings lead of 314 runs after India was dismissed for 201, highlighting struggles against a disciplined Proteas bowling attack. Sundar acknowledged the team’s execution didn’t meet expectations, stating, “On another day, both those shots would have gone into the stands, and all of us would have appreciated and clapped. That’s how it is.” He defended the aggressive approach of teammates Rishabh Pant and Dhruv Jurel, noting that such risks can sometimes pay off. “You just have to back their plans and their skill sets as well,” Sundar added. The all-rounder, who top-scored for India with 48 runs batting at number eight, expressed contentment with batting at any position for the team’s benefit. He also clarified that there was no specific run-rate target discussed for the innings, focusing instead on playing a standard Test match innings.
