Can Tilak Varma and Washington Sundar Reclaim Full Fitness Before the T20 World Cup?
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Synopsis
Indian cricketers Tilak Varma and Washington Sundar are undergoing rehabilitation at the BCCI’s Centre of Excellence in Bengaluru. Their aim is to achieve full fitness before the 2026 Men’s T20 World Cup. Both players have faced injuries, and the Indian team management is optimistic about their recovery.
Key Takeaways
- Tilak Varma and Washington Sundar at BCCI’s CoE.
- Both players are recovering from significant injuries.
- The 2026 Men’s T20 World Cup is approaching rapidly.
- The Indian team management is hopeful about their return.
- Rishabh Pant may also join them for rehab.
New Delhi, Jan 20 (NationPress) Indian cricketers Tilak Varma and Washington Sundar have arrived at the BCCI’s Centre of Excellence (CoE) in Bengaluru as they strive to achieve full fitness ahead of the upcoming 2026 Men’s T20 World Cup, which kicks off on February 7.
Tilak, a pivotal player in India’s T20I lineup, was sidelined for the initial three matches of the five-game series against New Zealand, commencing in Nagpur on Wednesday, due to an emergency surgery he underwent in Rajkot earlier this month for a lower abdominal issue sustained while competing for Hyderabad during the Vijay Hazare Trophy league phase.
Washington faced a left rib injury while bowling in the ODI series opener against New Zealand in Vadodara on January 11, resulting in his exclusion from the entire T20I series. Ravi Bishnoi, a leg-spinner, has been named in Washington's stead, while Shreyas Iyer will take Tilak's place for the first three matches.
“Indeed, both Tilak and Washington are at CoE for their respective rehabilitation programs. Washington will undergo further tests, and rehabilitation will commence based on their results. Tilak is yet to be evaluated,” sources informed IANS on Tuesday.
“However, it is anticipated that measures will be taken to ensure he is fully fit to join the Indian squad for the final two T20Is in Visakhapatnam and Thiruvananthapuram,” the sources added.
Additionally, reports suggest that India’s Test vice-captain and wicketkeeper-batter Rishabh Pant might arrive at the CoE later this week to initiate rehabilitation for a right side strain he acquired during a practice session on the eve of the ODI series opener against New Zealand in Vadodara on January 10.
The management of the Indian cricket team is optimistic that all injury concerns will be addressed before next month’s T20 World Cup, which is set to be co-hosted by India and Sri Lanka.
Point of View
The situation surrounding Tilak Varma and Washington Sundar’s injuries highlights the challenges faced by athletes in high-stakes environments. The BCCI's proactive measures at the Centre of Excellence reflect a commitment to player wellness, ensuring that India fields its best team for the T20 World Cup.
NationPress
20/01/2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What injuries did Tilak Varma and Washington Sundar suffer?
Tilak Varma underwent emergency surgery for a lower abdominal issue, while Washington Sundar suffered a left rib injury.
Where are they currently rehabilitating?
They are at the BCCI’s Centre of Excellence in Bengaluru.
When does the T20 World Cup start?
The T20 World Cup is set to begin on February 7, 2026.
Who is replacing Washington Sundar in the T20I series?
Ravi Bishnoi is replacing Washington Sundar, while Shreyas Iyer is stepping in for Tilak Varma.
Is Rishabh Pant also undergoing rehabilitation?
Yes, Rishabh Pant is expected to report to the CoE for rehab regarding a right side strain.
