Washington Sundar Says No to Selfies, Internet Reacts Sharply

Indian all-rounder Washington Sundar found himself at the center of a social media debate after a viral video showed him refusing selfie requests from fans, leaving opinions sharply divided. The clip, which surfaced on January 2, 2026, captures Sundar appearing visibly irritated as a group of enthusiasts surrounded him, repeatedly asking for photographs. While some fans criticized his attitude, calling it arrogant and dismissive, others defended him, arguing that cricketers deserve personal space and privacy, especially when not in official duty.

The incident highlights a recurring tension in Indian cricket: the immense public adoration for players often crosses into overreach, with fans sometimes disregarding boundaries. Sundar, who has represented India in 17 Tests, 28 ODIs, and 58 T20Is, is known for his calm demeanor and professionalism. However, the video shows him walking away from the crowd, prompting accusations of a "bad attitude" from some netizens, while supporters pointed out the need for celebrities to have personal time without constant intrusion.

The debate gained further traction as Sundar remains part of India's 15-man squad for the upcoming T20 World Cup 2026 (starting February 7 in India and Sri Lanka) and the ongoing T20I series against New Zealand. His inclusion in the squad alongside spinners Kuldeep Yadav and Varun Chakaravarthy has already sparked discussion, with former India batsman Wasim Jaffer questioning the selection, suggesting Yashasvi Jaiswal and Jitesh Sharma could have been preferred over Sundar and Ishan Kishan. Despite the off-field controversy, Sundar's recent form, including his role in India's T20I series win over South Africa, keeps him in contention for key matches.

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The viral moment has reignited conversations about celebrity-fan interactions in India, where cricketers are often treated as national icons. While some argue that players should graciously accept fan love as part of their celebrity status, others insist that constant demands for selfies, especially in private or casual settings, can become exhausting and intrusive. The incident serves as a reminder of the delicate balance public figures must maintain between accessibility and personal boundaries.

As Sundar prepares for the T20 World Cup and the ongoing bilateral series, the focus will likely shift back to his performances on the field. The selfie controversy, though brief, reflects the intense scrutiny Indian cricketers face both on and off the pitch. Whether it affects his mindset or public image remains to be seen, but it has once again highlighted the unique relationship between Indian cricket stars and their passionate fanbase.

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