Indian all-rounder Washington Sundar has been ruled out of the upcoming five-match T20I series against New Zealand due to a side strain. The series starts on January 21 in Nagpur.
Sundar sustained the injury while bowling during the first ODI against New Zealand in Vadodara on Sunday, January 11. The tension is in his left lower rib area and required scans shortly after the match.
He was ruled out of the remaining two ODIs of the three-match series for the first time. Fresh medical checks later confirmed that he will not recover in time for the T20I series, forcing the team management to keep him out as a precaution.
What stood out was Sundar’s effort in the Vadodara ODI. Despite the injury, he walked out to bat at number eight and struggled to run between the wickets. Even then, he remained in the middle and played his role in helping India cross the border.
The medical team at the Board of Control for Cricket in India is closely monitoring his recovery. The injury is not minor and expert advice is sought before determining next steps. Sundar has reportedly been advised to rest for a few weeks.
For the ODI squad, uncapped batsman Ayush Badoni has been named as his replacement. No replacement has been announced for the T20I squad yet.
Sundar’s absence has also raised concerns ahead of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup, which starts on February 7. With little time left, his fitness will be closely monitored by the selectors.
India already has some headaches, while Tilak Varma will also miss the first T20Is. The team management hopes that Sundar makes a full recovery, as his all-round role remains important for the World Cup plans.
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