CM Vijay announces INR 75 lakh reward for Washington Sundar after Asian Games gold

A cash reward of INR 75 lakh has been announced for Washington Sundar by Tamil Nadu Chief Minister C. Joseph Vijay, following India's gold-medal victory in men's cricket at the 2026 Asian Games held in Japan. India defeated Pakistan by 19 runs in the final on October 3, 2026, successfully defending the title they had claimed at the previous edition of the Games.

Sundar, who hails from Tamil Nadu, took two wickets in the final against Pakistan. His bowling contribution was among the factors that helped India restrict their opponents and secure the gold medal.

"I extend my heartfelt congratulations and praise to the Indian men's cricket team, which has achieved a historic feat by winning the gold medal in the men's cricket category at the 20th Asian Games currently being held in Japan, and to Mr. Washington Sundar, the cricketer from Tamil Nadu who is part of that team," CM Vijay wrote in a post on X (formerly Twitter).

What did CM Vijay announce for Washington Sundar?

CM Vijay confirmed that the Government of Tamil Nadu would formally present a cash award of INR 75 lakh to Sundar in recognition of his performance at the 2026 Asian Games. The Chief Minister also extended his wishes for Sundar's continued success in the sport.

"To commend the achievement of cricketer Mr. Washington Sundar, a prestigious cash award of ₹75 lakhs will be presented on behalf of the Government of Tamil Nadu. His victory will provide new inspiration and confidence to the younger generation. I wish Mr. Washington Sundar well for excelling in cricket matches and achieving many more milestones," CM Vijay further wrote.

The award reflects the state government's recognition of Sundar's role in India's gold-medal campaign. His two wickets in the final formed part of a collective bowling effort that kept Pakistan to a total 19 runs short of India's score.

How did India perform at the 2026 Asian Games cricket event?

India secured the gold medal in men's cricket at the 2026 Asian Games by beating Pakistan by 19 runs in the final on October 3, 2026. The result confirmed a back-to-back gold-medal achievement in the men's event, with India having also won the title at the previous edition of the Games.

Beyond the men's event, India also claimed the gold medal in women's cricket at the 2026 Asian Games, completing a full sweep of cricket gold medals at the tournament held in Japan.

Sundar's two wickets in the men's final were part of a team bowling performance that proved decisive in defending India's total against Pakistan. His efforts, alongside the rest of the squad, helped India retain the Asian Games men's cricket title and prompted the Tamil Nadu government's formal recognition.