Washington Sundar Cleared to Join India's T20 World Cup Campaign in Delhi
In a significant boost to India's T20 World Cup aspirations, all-rounder Washington Sundar has been declared fit and is scheduled to join the national squad in Delhi ahead of their crucial fixture against Namibia on February 12. The announcement came directly from captain Suryakumar Yadav following India's convincing victory over the United States in Mumbai.
"Washi (Washington Sundar) is joining us in Delhi. He's good. Everything is fine," confirmed Suryakumar Yadav during the post-match presentation, putting to rest concerns about the player's fitness status.
Road to Recovery: From Injury Setback to Match Fitness
Sundar's journey back to the squad has been carefully managed after he sustained an injury during the first ODI against New Zealand in Vadodara on January 11. The all-rounder experienced acute discomfort in his lower rib area while bowling, which subsequently forced him to miss the remainder of the New Zealand series and the following five T20 Internationals.
Medical examinations revealed the injury to be more complex than initially anticipated. While the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) officially described it as a side strain in their January 16 statement, sources indicate Sundar actually suffered a mild fracture in addition to the muscular strain, which extended his recovery timeline.
The rehabilitation process was meticulously supervised at the BCCI Centre of Excellence in Bengaluru, where Sundar consulted with renowned sports medicine specialist Dr. Dinshaw Pardiwala. The initial phase focused on pain management and allowing the injured area to heal naturally, followed by a gradual increase in workload.
Strategic Patience Pays Off for Team Management
The Indian team management demonstrated remarkable patience throughout Sundar's recovery period, resisting the temptation to replace him in the World Cup squad despite his extended absence from competitive cricket. This strategic decision reflects the value placed on Sundar's versatile skills as a left-handed batter and off-spin bowler.
While his immediate inclusion in the playing eleven against Namibia remains uncertain, Sundar's availability provides captain Suryakumar Yadav and the coaching staff with additional tactical flexibility. His ability to contribute with both bat and ball makes him a valuable match-up option as India progresses through the tournament.
Health Concerns for Bumrah and Abhishek Sharma
Meanwhile, the Indian camp is managing minor health issues affecting two other key players. Pace spearhead Jasprit Bumrah missed the tournament opener due to high fever, while opener Abhishek Sharma was absent during the second innings against the United States.
"Bumrah was having high fever due to the weather, similar to how Abhishek was under the weather," explained Suryakumar Yadav, confirming both players were recovering from illness.
Teammate Mohammed Siraj provided further clarification about Abhishek Sharma's condition, stating: "Everything is fine. His stomach was a little upset, so he didn't come out to field. He'll be back in the next match and show his magic with the bat."
The Indian management demonstrated adaptability during the USA match, with fielding coach T Dilip temporarily assuming drinks duties in Abhishek's absence. Both Bumrah and Abhishek are expected to be available for selection against Namibia as India looks to maintain their winning momentum in the T20 World Cup.
