Sundar Pichai on Washington Sundar IPL Snub: Google CEO Left Baffled
In an unexpected moment that brought tech and cricket fans together, Google CEO Sundar Pichai on Washington Sundar IPL exclusion voiced his disbelief on social media. His reaction came after Gujarat Titans, led by Shubman Gill, left Washington Sundar out of the playing XI in their opening clash against Punjab Kings in IPL 2025.
Sundar Pichai Responds to Viral Tweet
A cricket enthusiast took to X (formerly Twitter) and wrote,
“How Sundar sneaks into the best 15 of India but doesn’t get a place in any IPL XI when 10 teams exist is a mystery.”
To everyone’s surprise, the post caught the attention of Sundar Pichai, who replied:
“I have been wondering this too.”
This short and unexpected comment from the tech giant’s CEO immediately went viral. The user humorously responded to Sundar Pichai on Washington Sundar IPL remark, saying,
“Sir, give me a job in Google now that you have replied.”
Washington Sundar’s Mysterious IPL Decline
Despite having impressive stats in domestic and international cricket, Washington Sundar’s IPL appearances have remained limited. The off-spinner has featured in just 60 IPL matches, representing multiple franchises including Rising Pune Supergiant, Royal Challengers Bengaluru, Sunrisers Hyderabad, and now Gujarat Titans.
In IPL 2024, Sundar played only two matches for SRH, managing just one wicket while conceding 73 runs. Even with his proven abilities—113 wickets in 149 T20 matches at an economy of 6.98—Sundar once again found himself warming the bench.
The commentary by Sundar Pichai on Washington Sundar IPL situation brings attention to the paradox many cricket fans have pointed out: How does a bowler good enough for India not feature in playing XIs across 10 franchises?
Gujarat Titans Suffer Without Sundar
While Sundar remained benched, Gujarat Titans struggled in their opening IPL 2025 fixture. Facing off against Punjab Kings, GT were handed an 11-run defeat despite commendable knocks from Sai Sudarsan (74) and Jos Buttler (54).
Punjab Kings rode high on a power-packed batting performance, thanks to Shreyas Iyer’s unbeaten 97 off 42 balls and Shashank Singh’s blistering 44 not out off just 16 deliveries. Their combined effort pushed PBKS to a massive 243/5.
Fans Question Selection Strategy
Many believe that Washington Sundar could’ve played a vital role in Gujarat’s bowling attack, especially considering the conditions. His tight off-spin and ability to bat in the lower order add balance to any T20 side.
With Sundar Pichai on Washington Sundar IPL benching sparking discussions globally, cricket analysts and fans are again questioning the selection logic in the world’s richest T20 league. For a player who continues to make India’s national squads, his absence in IPL playing XIs raises eyebrows.
Will Gujarat Titans Rethink Strategy?
Given Gujarat Titans’ loss and the backlash following Sundar Pichai on Washington Sundar IPL exclusion, it remains to be seen whether the team will adjust its strategy going forward. With the league being long and demanding, Sundar might still get his chance to prove his worth on the biggest T20 stage.
