Indian cricket fans have more reason to cheer this September. Talented all-rounder Washington Sundar has officially signed with Hampshire to play the final two rounds of the County Championship 2025.
The move comes at a crucial stage for the club, which is fighting to secure its place in Division One after a tough season.
Why Sundar’s Signing is Big News
Washington Sundar is not just another overseas player signing late in the season — he is someone who brings balance, form, and international experience. Known for his calm batting under pressure and handy off-spin, Sundar offers Hampshire the kind of versatility that can swing tight games.
The 25-year-old will feature in two key fixtures:
- Against Somerset at Taunton (September 15–18)
- Against Surrey at the Utilita Bowl (September 24–27)
These games are make-or-break for Hampshire after their 8-point deduction for breaching pitch regulations earlier this year.
Sundar’s Impressive Form
Sundar comes into the stint after an excellent run with India in England earlier this summer.
- He scored 284 runs in the Test series at an average of nearly 47, including a memorable century at Old Trafford.
- With the ball, he chipped in with seven wickets, proving his value as a genuine all-rounder.
In domestic and first-class cricket, Sundar’s numbers are equally impressive:
- 1,800+ runs in 40 matches at an average of around 34
- 91 wickets with his accurate off-spin
This mix of batting and bowling is exactly what Hampshire needs in high-stakes matches.
Not His First County Experience
This isn’t Washington Sundar’s first taste of county cricket. Back in 2022, he represented Lancashire in both the County Championship and the One-Day Cup. He made headlines on debut, taking a five-wicket haul and showing he could adapt quickly to English conditions.
That experience will now come in handy as he joins Hampshire at a time when conditions get trickier late in the season, especially at grounds like Taunton.
What’s the Deal?
Hampshire has confirmed that Sundar will join their squad for their two remaining Division One matches. These are crucial fixtures as the club is fighting to avoid relegation, especially after being slammed with an 8-point deduction for breaching pitch regulations.
Giles White, Hampshire’s Director of Cricket, expressed confidence in Sundar’s impact:
“We’re delighted to bring Washington to the club for the County Championship. He had an excellent series against England this summer and he’ll play a key role with two big games coming up against Somerset and Surrey.”
A Test for Both Player and Club
For Hampshire, these last two matches are about avoiding relegation. The points deduction hurt their campaign badly, and now they must beat strong teams like Somerset and Surrey to stay afloat. Sundar’s role could be decisive in this battle.
For Sundar, the stint is equally important. While he isn’t currently in India’s immediate playing XI across formats, consistent performances in county cricket keep him sharp and ready for future Test opportunities. More importantly, English conditions are known to test a player’s technique and temperament — two areas Sundar has shown maturity well beyond his years.
