What Are Suryakumar's Updates on Tilak and Sunder's T20 World Cup Availability?
Synopsis
In a recent press conference, Indian captain Suryakumar Yadav provided a promising update about the availability of Tilak Varma and Washington Sunder for T20 World Cup 2026. Their recovery comes after significant injuries, and the team looks forward to their participation in upcoming practice matches.
Key Takeaways
Tilak Varma is recovering well from surgery.
Washington Sunder is back to practice after a rib injury.
Both players are expected to participate in warm-up matches in Mumbai.
India's T20 World Cup campaign starts on February 7.
Thiruvananthapuram, Feb 1 (NationPress) Indian captain Suryakumar Yadav has shared encouraging news regarding the availability of Tilak Varma and Washington Sunder for the upcoming T20 World Cup 2026. This update came during a post-match conference after India triumphed over New Zealand by 46 runs in the fifth and final T20I at the Greenfield Stadium in Thiruvananthapuram.
Tilak has been out of action for almost a month due to testicular surgery following an injury incurred during a Ranji Trophy match. The left-handed batsman last represented India in the second T20I against South Africa on December 19 of the previous year.
According to Suryakumar, Tilak has made a recovery and will rejoin the squad next week in Mumbai, where he is expected to participate in two practice matches before the tournament.
“Tilak Varma…he is progressing well. I heard he is set to play in two matches in Mumbai on the 2nd and 4th. I believe those two games should suffice. I chatted with him yesterday,” Suryakumar Yadav remarked late Saturday night.
“He has resumed batting, bowling, fielding, and more. So, we are hopeful to have him back soon,” he added.
India’s key all-rounder, Sunder, is currently in rehabilitation at the BCCI’s Centre of Excellence (CoE). Sunder was included in India’s playing XI for the first ODI against New Zealand in Vadodara on January 11. He sustained a rib injury while bowling in that match but still batted to help secure a victory for India.
Regarding Sunder's fitness, the captain noted that the all-rounder has begun practicing batting and bowling, and he is optimistic about Sunder rejoining the team shortly.
“I think Washy is also doing well. We spoke to both of them yesterday. Tilak is recovering nicely. Washy has nearly resumed his bowling and batting. He seems to be in good shape. We hope to have him back soon,” Suryakumar stated.
The Indian team is set to gather in Mumbai, where they will participate in two warm-up matches before the World Cup kicks off on February 7.
Point of View
The news of Tilak Varma and Washington Sunder's recovery is a significant boost for Team India as they prepare for the T20 World Cup. Their return is crucial for strengthening the squad, and fans will be eager to see how they perform in the upcoming matches.
NationPress
9 May 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the current status of Tilak Varma's recovery?
Tilak Varma has recovered from his surgery and is expected to rejoin the team next week to participate in practice matches.
How is Washington Sunder's fitness progressing?
Washington Sunder is also making good progress, having resumed batting and bowling practice, and is anticipated to rejoin the team soon.
When does the T20 World Cup 2026 start?
The T20 World Cup 2026 is set to commence on February 7.
