India all-rounder Washington Sundar has said he is comfortable batting at different positions and enjoys the challenge of adapting to various roles for the team. His comments came after he played a crucial unbeaten innings in India's six-wicket victory over England in the first ODI at Edgbaston, Birmingham, where he helped guide the visitors to a successful run chase. Sundar, who came in at number five in the batting order, scored an unbeaten 52 runs to play a key role in India's chase of England's target.

He shared an important unbeaten partnership of 102 runs with Axar Patel, who also remained not out on 57.  Their composed stand helped India recover after losing four wickets and complete the chase comfortably with overs to spare. Speaking about his batting position, Sundar said he is happy to contribute wherever the team requires him. The all-rounder, whose role has changed frequently across formats, described the opportunity to perform different responsibilities as an exciting challenge rather than a difficulty.

He said adapting to different situations helps him grow as a player and allows him to contribute in multiple ways. India's victory was set up earlier by captain Shubman Gill, who produced an elegant knock of 80 runs despite dealing with physical discomfort during his innings. Gill's innings provided India with a strong foundation after early setbacks, including the dismissals of senior batters Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli.  His partnership with Shreyas Iyer further strengthened India's position before Sundar and Axar finished the job.

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Sundar and Axar's partnership proved especially valuable after both players had struggled for consistent runs during India's recent T20I matches. In the longer format, the duo showed patience and composure against England's bowling attack, absorbing pressure before accelerating when required. Their ability to rotate strike and find boundaries helped India maintain control during the final stages of the chase. The victory gave India a 1-0 lead in the three-match ODI series and marked their first win of the ongoing tour of the United Kingdom.

Sundar's performance also highlighted India's growing depth in the middle order, with the team benefiting from all-round contributions in a demanding overseas series. With his ability to contribute with both bat and ball, Sundar remains an important part of India's plans across formats. His willingness to adapt to different batting positions gives the team greater flexibility, especially in situations where match conditions require players to take on unfamiliar roles. As the ODI series progresses, his performance in Birmingham will strengthen his case for a consistent place in India's playing XI.

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