Shikhar Dhawan, a veteran Indian opener, had nothing but praise for one of Team India’s rising stars ahead of the 2nd One Day International (ODI) against hosts Bangladesh on Tuesday. After a mediocre performance in the series opener, the senior batter will be eager to make amends. On Sunday, the Rohit Sharma-led Team India was stunned by a spirited Bangladesh side in the first ODI of the three-match series.
Dhawan praised all-rounder Washington Sundar in his comments ahead of the crucial match between Asian teams. On the eve of the second ODI against the hosts, the senior batter told the media that Sundar has the potential to become a ‘great’ all-rounder for the two-time world champions. Dhawan’s comments follow Sundar’s heroics during the New Zealand tour.
“He has been performing really well since the time he came back. Even in New Zealand he had an amazing knock and bowled really well. He’s a very good all-rounder, quite an impactful off-spinner and lower-order batter. I’m sure the more matches he plays, he’s going to get more experienced. He already had a very stable mindset. I’m sure he’ll do great in the cricket world and for us,” Dhawan said.
They really enjoy and play with great intensity: Shikhar Dhawan on the Bangladesh team
Dhawan also discussed the heated rivalry between India and Bangladesh in white-ball cricket. Bangladesh defeated India by one wicket in the low-scoring thriller to take a 1-0 lead in the three-match series. The 37-year-old, who opened the innings alongside skipper Rohit in the first ODI, managed only 7 off 17 balls at the Shere Bangla National Stadium.
“The rivalry is always there with any team but with Bangladesh, they are quite emotional people. They really enjoy and play with great intensity. It’s good fun, makes us more intense as well and keep us on our toes. It brings the best out of us,” Dhawan added.
