Washington Sundar's World Cup Hopes Dim as Injury Proves Serious
The Indian cricket team faces a major selection headache. Washington Sundar's participation in next month's T20 World Cup hangs in the balance. A side strain, initially thought minor, now appears more severe. This development rules the all-rounder out of the upcoming T20I series against New Zealand.
Medical Team Advises Caution and Backup Planning
Sources within the Board of Control for Cricket in India confirm the situation. The BCCI medical team has recommended waiting another week. They need a proper assessment of Sundar's recovery timeline. However, they have also advised the team management to prepare a 'Plan B'. The recovery period might be too tight for the tournament's initial stages.
Team captain Suryakumar Yadav and the national selectors are actively considering alternatives. The team management is already drafting contingency plans. A BCCI source revealed the current thinking. "The selectors and team management must think about a backup plan," the source said. "Washington may not be fully fit for the World Cup's early matches."
Other Injury Concerns Add to Team Woes
India grapples with additional fitness issues. Tilak Varma is ruled out of the first three T20Is against New Zealand. The team management anxiously awaits his return to the field. Varma recently underwent emergency abdominal surgery. His recovery progress remains a point of close observation.
The situation with Sundar is particularly delicate. Teams can make player changes until seven days before the tournament begins. India's early World Cup schedule, featuring matches against associate nations, offers a potential buffer. There is a case for not naming an immediate replacement. This approach could grant Sundar extra recovery time for the tournament's crucial later stages.
It is important to note a key detail. Even when fully fit, Sundar was not guaranteed a starting spot in the playing eleven. This factor influences the decision-making process.
Backup Options Under Scrutiny
The selection committee is evaluating several candidates to fill the potential void.
- Riyan Parag: Considered a like-for-like replacement. He is currently at the BCCI's Centre of Excellence, awaiting clearance after shoulder injury rehabilitation. Parag has resumed bowling and is throwing with full intensity. Fitness clearance could come as early as next week.
- Shahbaz Ahmed: Another left-arm spin-bowling all-rounder option. The Bengal player was called up during the last T20I series against South Africa when Axar Patel fell ill.
- Nitish Reddy: Has been traveling with the team for over a year and enjoys management backing. However, his medium-pace bowling has been unconvincing and rarely utilized in matches.
- Ayush Badoni: Viewed as a dark horse candidate. Badoni is currently with the ODI team as Sundar's replacement. Selectors must decide if they are willing to take a chance on the rookie.
Assessment and Next Steps
Washington Sundar is scheduled to report to the Centre of Excellence this weekend. The medical team suspects the injury might be more serious than a simple side strain. A thorough assessment of the area around his ribs is planned.
India's strategy for the T20 World Cup likely involves a spin-heavy bowling attack. Varun Chakravarthy, Kuldeep Yadav, and Axar Patel are probable first-choice spinners. Sundar's potential absence requires careful recalibration of this plan. The coming week will be critical for final decisions on his World Cup fate.
