India have suffered a major blow with Washington Sundar being ruled out of the upcoming five-match T20I series against New Zealand. The all-rounder is recovering from a side strain he picked up during the first ODI and is now in a race against time to be fit for the T20 World Cup, which begins on February 7.
The injury has already kept Sundar out of the ODI series, and medical feedback suggests he will not recover in time for the T20Is starting January 21.
What Exactly Happened to Washington Sundar?
Injury Details
- Sundar felt sharp discomfort in his left lower rib/side area while bowling in the first ODI.
- Despite the pain, he came out to bat and played a key role in finishing the match.
- Post-match assessments confirmed the injury was more serious than initially expected.
The issue has been described as an acute side strain, requiring careful rehabilitation rather than a rushed return.
Ruled Out of New Zealand T20Is
India’s team management has decided not to risk Sundar in the T20I series against New Zealand. With workload management and the World Cup in mind, the focus has shifted fully to his recovery.
India T20I Series Context
- Series: India vs New Zealand (5 T20Is)
- Dates: January 21 to January 31
- Purpose: Final preparation before the T20 World Cup
India are not short of options, with several all-rounders set to join the squad, reducing pressure on Sundar’s immediate return.
Read more: Was Washington Sundar Treated Unfairly? Gautam Gambhir’s Decision Sparks Debate
Rehabilitation at BCCI Centre of Excellence
Recovery Plan – Sundar is expected to undergo intensive rehabilitation at the BCCI Centre of Excellence in Bengaluru. The medical team will:
- Conduct detailed scans and grading of the injury
- Decide return-to-play protocols
- Monitor pain levels and mobility before clearance
Only after this assessment will a clear timeline for his comeback emerge.
T20 World Cup Availability Still Unclear
Sundar remains part of India’s provisional T20 World Cup squad, but his participation is not guaranteed at this stage. Teams are allowed to make squad changes until January 31, giving selectors limited time to make a final call.
- Offers balance as a spin-bowling all-rounder
- Controls middle overs in T20s
- Provides left-right flexibility in batting
The team management is expected to show patience if there is a realistic chance of him featuring later in the tournament.
Who Replaces Sundar If He Misses Out?
If Sundar is ruled out of the World Cup, India have several backup options under consideration.
Possible Replacement Options
| Player | Skill Set | Role |
|---|---|---|
| Sai Kishore | Left-arm spinner | Spin control |
| Shahbaz Ahmed | Batting all-rounder | Balance option |
| Krunal Pandya | Spin-all-rounder | Experience & power |
For the ODI series, Ayush Badoni has already been added as a replacement, though his inclusion in the T20I squad is yet to be confirmed.
Other Injury Concerns in India Camp
India are also dealing with another absence:
- Tilak Varma will miss the first three T20Is following surgery, further testing the squad depth early in the series.
Calm Approach from Team Management
Despite the setback, there is no panic within the Indian camp. The focus remains on long-term fitness over short-term gains, especially with a global tournament just weeks away.
India’s depth in all-rounders gives selectors breathing space, allowing Sundar the best chance to return fully fit rather than hurried.
Read more: Ayush Badoni Last 10 Innings: Batting & Bowling
Washington Sundar’s injury has come at an unfortunate time, but the coming days will be crucial. A cautious recovery could still keep his T20 World Cup dream alive, while India prepare with strong backup options in place.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1. Why is Washington Sundar out of the New Zealand T20Is?
He is recovering from a side strain suffered during the first ODI and has not healed in time for the T20I series.
Q2. Is Washington Sundar ruled out of the T20 World Cup?
No final decision yet. His availability depends on recovery progress over the next two weeks.
Q3. Where is Sundar undergoing rehabilitation?
He is set to report to the BCCI Centre of Excellence in Bengaluru for treatment and assessment.
Q4. Who replaced Sundar in the ODI squad?
Ayush Badoni has been added to the ODI squad as his replacement.
Q5. When will a final call on his World Cup spot be taken?
A decision is expected before the January 31 deadline for squad changes.
Q6. Can India manage without Sundar in T20Is?
Yes. India have multiple all-round options, but Sundar’s skill set adds unique balance.
