Is Washington Sundar Out for the Remainder of the ODI Series Against New Zealand?
Synopsis
India's chances in the ODI series against New Zealand take a hit as off-spinner Washington Sundar is ruled out due to injury. With uncertainty looming over his availability for the upcoming T20I series, the team faces a significant challenge ahead of the home T20 World Cup. Stay tuned for updates!
Key Takeaways
Washington Sundar ruled out of remaining ODIs due to a side strain .
Uncertainty about his availability for the upcoming T20I series .
Significant impact on India's preparation for the T20 World Cup .
Third injury blow to the Indian team in this series.
Concerns over player fitness leading into major tournaments.
New Delhi, Jan 12 (NationPress) India's off-spin all-rounder Washington Sundar has been sidelined from the team's final two games in the ongoing ODI series against New Zealand due to a side strain sustained during the series opener in Vadodara on Sunday, as revealed by a source to IANS on Monday.
The source also indicated uncertainty regarding Sundar's availability for the five-match T20I series against New Zealand, set to commence on January 21 in Nagpur.
"Sundar has been ruled out of the remaining two ODIs against New Zealand after being diagnosed with a side strain from a blow to the left rib during the first game in Vadodara. It is unclear whether he will be ready for the T20Is against New Zealand, given that recovery from a side strain typically requires time," a source familiar with the situation informed IANS.
Captain Shubman Gill also addressed inquiries regarding Sundar after the match, stating that the all-rounder had undergone scans post-match. "He (Washington) will be going for a scan, and we will know more once that's done," noted the Indian Test and ODI captain during the presentation ceremony.
Harshit Rana was similarly questioned about Sundar's condition at the post-match press conference, stating, "Washington Sundar has a side strain. He was in pain while batting. The medical team will assess and provide updates."
While the BCCI is yet to confirm details, this represents a significant setback for the hosts, especially with the home T20 World Cup approaching.
Currently, the all-rounder is included in India's World Cup squad, but it remains uncertain whether the reliable yet injury-prone Sundar will recover in time for the T20I series.
This marks the third injury setback for the Men in Blue during this white-ball series against New Zealand, following injuries to Rishabh Pant and Tilak Varma. Pant was ruled out of the ODI series due to a side strain last week, with Dhruv Jurel replacing him in the squad, while Varma underwent surgery for a groin injury, ruling him out of the first three T20Is in the five-match series.
Point of View
The injury to Washington Sundar is undoubtedly a setback for the Indian cricket team, especially with the T20 World Cup on the horizon. The team must strategize effectively to cope with this loss while ensuring the fitness of its players remains a priority.
NationPress
21 Jun 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What injury has Washington Sundar sustained?
Washington Sundar has suffered a side strain during the ODI series against New Zealand.
Will Sundar be available for the T20I series?
It is currently uncertain if Sundar will be fit for the upcoming T20I series against New Zealand.
Who is replacing Sundar in the ODI squad?
As of now, there is no specific replacement announced for Washington Sundar in the ODI squad.
How does this injury impact the Indian team?
Sundar's injury is a significant setback for the Indian team, especially with the T20 World Cup approaching.
Has Sundar faced injuries before?
Yes, Washington Sundar has been known to have a history of injuries, affecting his availability at times.
