Impressed by the advanced technology and pristine surroundings of Japan, India’s off-spin bowling all-rounder Washington Sundar on Monday said the team is excited to be part of a historic one-off men’s T20I game against the hosts at Sano, despite the primary focus being on winning the gold medal in the upcoming Asian Games. The clash, to be played on Tuesday, is under the threat of Typhoon Dujuan.
Impressed by the advanced technology and pristine surroundings of Japan, India’s all-rounder Washington Sundar said the team is excited to be part of a historic one-off men’s T20I game against the hosts at Sano.
With cricket included in the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics, Sundar highlighted how multi-sporting events offer a unique thrill, recalling his previous appearance at the continental games.
So, all of us are really sort of excited to experience all of the facilities and be really ready whenever the Asian Games come,” said Sundar. “It’s a big stage and there will be a few more countries who play cricket really well, and compete in that tournament and yes, if we can win the gold medal in Olympics, it will be a massive blessing,” he observed. “I mean, it’s beautiful. I feel the technology is so much more advanced than most of the countries I’ve been to. It’s just a beautiful place to be and for us to be also playing cricket over here, we’re all really looking forward and we’ve got two sort of big series or big tournaments coming up. “I think India is playing Japan for the first time ever and for all of us to be a part of such a historical game and an event, we’re really grateful. Obviously, the Asian Games as well, and we’re going to prepare in Tokyo. Admitting that he knows little about the opposition lineup, Sundar expressed his eagerness to interact with local players and understand the growth of the sport in the country. “Honestly, I haven’t seen most of the players, but really looking forward to play a good game against them and obviously have a bit of interaction with them and understand what they think about cricket in Japan. Obviously, it’ll be lovely to see them travel across the world and play some high-quality cricket. “Very much. Outlining the squad’s core objective on the trip to Japan, Sundar stated that India, the current T20 World Cup holders, still remain the team to beat in the shortest format of the game.
Obviously, I was lucky enough to be part of the Asian Games last year in China as well and yes, all of us are looking forward to Olympics as well. Obviously, the one against Japan, we’re all looking forward,” Sundar said to reporters on the eve of the one-off clash on Tuesday. But yes, tomorrow is going to be a big day for all of us and all of us are excited,” he said.
