Is Tilak Ready for Warm-Up Matches? Sunder's Progress and Suryakumar Yadav's Update Ahead of T20 WC
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Key Takeaways
Thiruvananthapuram, Feb 1 (NationPress) Indian captain Suryakumar Yadav has shared an optimistic update regarding Tilak Varma and Washington Sunder's readiness for the forthcoming T20 World Cup 2026. This announcement came during a post-match press briefing after India's impressive 46-run victory against New Zealand in the fifth and concluding T20I match at the Greenfield Stadium in Thiruvananthapuram.
Tilak had been out of action for almost a month due to a testicular surgery following an injury he incurred during a Ranji Trophy match. The last time this left-handed batsman represented India was in the second T20I against South Africa on December 19 of the previous year.
As per the Indian captain, Tilak is on the road to recovery and is set to rejoin the squad next week in Mumbai, where he will participate in two practice matches prior to the tournament.
“Tilak Verma… he is progressing well. I understand he has two games scheduled in Mumbai on the 2nd and 4th. I believe those two matches will be sufficient. I had a conversation with him just yesterday,” Suryakumar Yadav stated late on Saturday night.
“He has resumed batting, bowling, fielding, and all other activities. So, hopefully, we should have him back soon,” he added.
Meanwhile, India's star all-rounder, Sunder, is currently in rehabilitation at the BCCI's Centre of Excellence (CoE). He was part of India's squad in the first ODI against New Zealand in Vadodara on January 11, where he sustained a rib injury while bowling but still managed to bat and contribute to India's victory.
Regarding Sunder's fitness, the captain mentioned that the all-rounder has begun practicing both batting and bowling and is anticipated to rejoin the team shortly.
“I think Washy is doing well too. We communicated with both players yesterday. Tilak is improving, and Washy has nearly resumed his bowling and batting. He looks good. We hope to have him back soon,” Suryakumar said.
The Indian team is set to convene in Mumbai, where they will engage in two warm-up matches before the World Cup kicks off on February 7.