India might lose a home Test series for the first time in 12 years, but Washington Sundar has shown he is ready for a red-ball return.

Washington Sundar played a crucial role in India's second Test match after their defeat in Bengaluru. He showcased an impressive bowling spell, taking 7 wickets for 59 runs, and gave India's campaign a significant uplift.

India's Washington Sundar claimed a career-best seven-wicket haul and spin partner Ravichandran Ashwin took three to dismiss New Zealand for 259 before the hosts reached 16-1 at stumps on the opening day of the second test in Pune on Thursday.

Washington Sundar made his mark on his return to the side, posting a seven-wicket haul to frustrate New Zealand on day one of the second Test.

The allrounder batted at No. 3 and scored a first-innings 152 for Tamil Nadu in their ongoing Ranji Trophy match against Delhi | ESPN.com

There is an interesting story of gratitude behind Washington Sundar’s name. India’s hero on Day 1 of the Test against New Zealand in Pune got his unusual name thanks to his father for whom this was a tribute to his benefactor. This is from the time the India all-rounder’s father was trying to make it to the Tamil Nadu Ranji Trophy team.

Washington Sundar claimed his first-ever five-wicket haul in the international circuit. Sundar has also become the player with the best figures against the Blackcaps in the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) history.

New Zealand, after a strong start, faltered against India’s Tamil Nadu offspinners, Washington Sundar and R Ashwin, who claimed all ten wickets to bowl out the visitors for 259. Washington's exceptional 7/59 spell turned the game,

Allrounder Washington Sundar justified the India call-up with an outing of 7/59 against New Zealand and his first Test since March 2021 in Pune on Thursday. His brilliant effort ensured that the Kiwis were restricted to 259 in the first innings.