India’s T20 World Cup aspirations have encountered an early hurdle with all-rounder Washington Sundar ruled out of the remainder of the ODI series against New Zealand due to injury. The BCCI confirmed Sundar’s absence, raising concerns about his participation in the tournament co-hosted by India and Sri Lanka starting June 7th [[1]]. With the squad deadline approaching and another player, Tilak Varma, also facing recovery doubts, selectors face critical decisions in the coming weeks as they finalize their team for the highly anticipated competition.
Injury Concerns for India Ahead of T20 World Cup as Sundar Sits Out
Mumbai: India’s preparations for the upcoming T20 World Cup have hit a snag with all-rounder Washington Sundar sustaining an injury during the first ODI against New Zealand. The development casts doubt on his availability for the tournament, which begins next month in India and Sri Lanka. Sundar bowled just five overs before leaving the field, and the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has confirmed he will miss the remainder of the ODI series and the subsequent T20 matches.
Recent reports suggest Sundar’s recovery could take months, further jeopardizing his chances of participating in the T20 World Cup. India’s campaign begins on June 7th in Mumbai against the United States, leaving little time for Sundar to regain full fitness. Fans are now speculating about potential replacements in the squad.
Delhi youngster Ayush Badoni was named as Sundar’s replacement for the ongoing ODI series against New Zealand, but his inclusion in the T20 squad or the World Cup team remains uncertain. Badoni lacks extensive experience in T20 cricket, making his selection less likely, according to sources.
The BCCI has until May 31st to make changes to the initial 15-member World Cup squad, after which any alterations will require approval from the International Cricket Council (ICC). Adding to India’s injury concerns, Tilak Varma, who suffered a setback during the Vijay Hazare Trophy, is also doubtful for the early stages of the tournament. Selectors are considering whether to include Varma in the Super 8 stage, should he recover in time.
