Is Washington Sundar Out of T20I Series Against New Zealand Due to Injury?
Synopsis
Washington Sundar's absence from the T20I series against New Zealand raises questions about India's squad strength. As he battles a rib injury, the cricket community is left wondering if he can recover in time for the T20 World Cup. Stay tuned for updates on Sundar's recovery and team adjustments.
Key Takeaways
Washington Sundar is out of the New Zealand T20I series due to a rib injury.
The T20I series starts on January 21 in Nagpur.
His recovery timeline remains uncertain as the T20 World Cup approaches.
Ayush Badoni receives his first national call-up as Sundar's replacement.
Tilak Varma is another player ruled out due to injury.
New Delhi, Jan 15 (NationPress) Washington Sundar, the all-rounder from India, has been officially sidelined from the upcoming five-match T20I series against New Zealand due to a rib injury sustained during the opening ODI match in Vadodara, as reported by sources to IANS on Thursday.
The T20I series, commencing on January 21 at the Vidarbha Cricket Association Stadium in Nagpur, is a crucial part of India’s preparations for the T20 World Cup starting on February 7. It is uncertain whether Sundar will be fit in time for this prominent tournament.
A source disclosed, “Washington is out of the T20Is against New Zealand, as he will require at least a few more weeks for recovery from the injury incurred in the Vadodara ODI. It is still unclear if he will regain full fitness before the T20 World Cup.”
Additionally, it was mentioned, “Washington is expected to report to the CoE in Bengaluru on Saturday, where he will receive a clearer timeline regarding his recovery.”
This marks the second significant injury setback for the Indian squad ahead of the T20I series, following the exclusion of Tilak Varma, who had surgery for a groin issue and is out for the first three matches.
Previously, Sundar was also ruled out of the ongoing ODI series after experiencing acute discomfort in his left lower rib area while bowling during the first ODI against New Zealand at the BCA Stadium last Sunday, prompting further scans.
The BCCI has called up 26-year-old Ayush Badoni as Sundar’s replacement, giving him his first national team call-up.
The squad includes: Suryakumar Yadav (c), Abhishek Sharma, Sanju Samson (wk), Tilak Varma (unavailable for initial three games), Hardik Pandya, Shivam Dube, Axar Patel (vc), Rinku Singh, Jasprit Bumrah, Harshit Rana, Arshdeep Singh, Kuldeep Yadav, Varun Chakaravarthy, Washington Sundar, Ishan Kishan (wk).
Point of View
Our perspective remains in support of the Indian cricket team's endeavors. The exclusion of Washington Sundar due to injury certainly raises concerns, but the resilience of the team in adapting to such challenges is commendable. We support the team in its preparations for the T20 World Cup and hope for Sundar's swift recovery.
NationPress
20 Jun 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What injury did Washington Sundar sustain?
Washington Sundar suffered a rib injury during the ODI series opener against New Zealand.
When does the T20I series against New Zealand start?
The T20I series against New Zealand is set to begin on January 21.
Who will replace Washington Sundar in the squad?
Ayush Badoni has been called up as Washington Sundar's replacement.
Is Sundar expected to recover in time for the T20 World Cup?
It is currently unclear whether Washington Sundar will be fit for the T20 World Cup starting on February 7.
What other injury has affected the Indian team?
Tilak Varma has also been ruled out of the first three T20Is due to a groin injury.
