Washington Sundar and powerplay: A bond that was formed years ago

RCB all-rounder, Washington Sundar, has managed to make a major impact in the powerplay stage of the game. Surprisingly, the youngster doesn't get mired by the pressure, particularly bowling in a phase where the batsmen generally tend to go full throttle against the bowlers. The strong-willed temperament, though, seems to have originated from disciplined and systematic training regimes mapped out by his father at a very young age. 

The basic tenets of a child developing a strong affinity for sports begin at home. As the famous phrase says, "Teach them young and right. " - Washington's father, M Sundar, knew that the standardized training module would reap rewards in the future. Looking at his recent performances, it is very abundantly obvious that his father's efforts have paid dividends.

"From 12 onwards, he started bowling with the new ball, first, third and fifth overs. 99 percent of the time, his first over would be a maiden or just one or two runs would be scored. Sometimes he used to get 2-3 wickets in the first over itself. He used to bowl with two slips and all,” M Sundar was then quoted as saying to Firstpost.com 

Sundar, with his immaculate line and lengths, has thus far operated with an impressive economy rate of 4.89. The 21-year-old pitted against the fierce CSK opening combo - Shane Watson and Faf du Plessis - delivered yet another tidy performance, not allowing the batsmen to score anything nearly of his three-over spell. "Glad to be given this role, I am very happy bowling in the powerplay especially against two great batsmen, that too against a team like CSK, to be able to perform well, I feel confident,” Washington said at the post-match presentation ceremony. 

[Firstpost.com inputs]