Washington Sundar has been ruled out of the upcoming T20I series against New Zealand and is also a doubtful starter for the 2026 T20 World Cup, which begins next month.
The Indian all-rounder sustained a side strain during the first ODI of the ongoing white-ball series against New Zealand in Vadodara. He left the field after bowling just five overs but later returned to bat, scoring an unbeaten 7 off 7 balls in India’s four-wicket win.
Following the match, Washington was ruled out of the remainder of the three-match ODI series. The BCCI confirmed that he had “reported an acute onset of discomfort in his left lower rib area while bowling.” Subsequent scans have prompted the board to send him to the Centre of Excellence (CoE) in Bengaluru for further assessment and rehabilitation.
Washington’s availability for the home T20 World Cup is now in serious doubt, with the all-rounder unlikely to regain full fitness before the tournament gets underway on February 7. Defending champions India will begin their campaign against the USA in Mumbai on the opening day of the 20-team tournament.
He has already been replaced by Ayush Badoni in the ODI squad, while his replacement for the T20I series is expected to be announced soon. India are scheduled to play five T20Is against New Zealand as part of their preparations for the World Cup.
