Washington Sundar Wins Impact Player Award as India Clinch T20I Series 2–1 Against Australia

Washington Sundar’s consistency and composure shone through once again as the Indian all-rounder was named Impact Player of the Series after India’s commanding 2–1 T20I series triumph over Australia. The recognition came following a string of standout performances that reaffirmed Sundar’s reputation as one of India’s most dependable utility players in the shortest format.

The announcement was made in a behind-the-scenes video shared by the BCCI, where the 26-year-old was seen receiving the medal from team operations manager Rahil Khaja inside the dressing room. Beaming with pride, Sundar said the honour meant a great deal after what he described as one of the most fulfilling tours of his career.

“Coming over here and getting an opportunity to play in Australia is amazing, and to have contributed to the team’s victory makes me definitely happy,” Sundar said after the presentation.

Sundar’s Game-Changing Impact

Throughout the series, Sundar proved pivotal to India’s success — adapting effortlessly between roles and delivering in crucial moments. His performance in the third T20I at Hobart stood out as a defining moment. Promoted up the order, he played a fearless knock of 49 off 23 balls, smashing four sixes and three boundaries to help India chase down the target and level the series.

If his batting showcased aggression, his bowling did the rest in the fourth T20I, where Sundar’s late spell turned the game on its head. In a dramatic over, he picked up three wickets in five balls, triggering an Australian collapse that sealed a 48-run victory and ensured India’s series lead.

With Captain Suryakumar Yadav leading from the front and the final match at the Gabba being abandoned due to rain, India wrapped up the series 2–1. Sundar’s balance of aggression with control — both with bat and ball — was hailed by teammates and analysts alike as a key factor behind the win.

A Tribute to Team Spirit

Sundar dedicated his award to the team’s support staff, particularly Rahil Khaja, who presented him with the medal.

“It’s such a great feeling to get this medal from him. We know the kind of work he puts in every single day to make our jobs easier,” Sundar said.

Khaja, in an emotional response, expressed pride in the team’s collective effort:

“The first time in my life I’m looking at this — we’ve actually done this,” he said, summing up the sense of accomplishment within the Indian camp.

Rising Career, Consistent Results

Statistically, Sundar continues to impress across formats. In 57 T20Is, he maintains a bowling average just above 22, an economy rate under 7, and a batting strike rate exceeding 134 — rare numbers for a spin-bowling all-rounder. His Test record is equally commendable, with 35 wickets in 15 matches and a batting average of 44.76, including a century.

The Impact Player of the Series honour — part of the BCCI’s initiative to highlight all-round match influence — couldn’t have gone to a more deserving player.

In a team filled with stars, Washington Sundar stands out not for flamboyance, but for quiet effectiveness — a cricketer who lets his performance speak louder than his words. His success in Australia cements his place as India’s go-to all-rounder for the next generation of T20 cricket.