Washington Sundar Excluded from Series Due to Injury; Bishnoi Steps In

Post by : Mina Rahman

Indian spin-bowling all-rounder Washington Sundar has been sidelined from the current one-day international series after a side strain was diagnosed during the first match against New Zealand last week. The injury arose while he was bowling, causing him to express discomfort in his lower rib area, which raised alarms for the team management.

In the wake of the injury, Sundar underwent medical scans to evaluate the situation. The findings confirmed a side strain, prompting him to consult a medical expert. Following the assessment, he has been advised to rest completely for several days to facilitate healing. Upon recovery, Sundar is expected to report to the BCCI Centre of Excellence, where a comprehensive rehabilitation and injury management plan will be initiated to track his recovery.

This setback has led to the men’s selection committee making necessary modifications to the team lineup. Leg-spinner Ravi Bishnoi has been appointed as Sundar’s replacement, enhancing the bowling artillery as India resumes the series. Another noteworthy change is the inclusion of Shreyas Iyer in the T20I squad for the first three matches, taking over from Tilak Varma, who is also unavailable due to injury.

Sundar’s injury is a significant blow for the Indian squad, particularly with the World Cup on the horizon. Recently named in India’s 15-member lineup for the prestigious tournament, his recovery will be closely scrutinized in the forthcoming days. Team officials remain optimistic that prompt treatment and rehabilitation will see him back in action ahead of the global championship.

The New Zealand series, scheduled from January 21 to 31, is critical as it serves as preparation for India leading up to the World Cup, which kicks off on February 7 and will be co-hosted by India and Sri Lanka.

In the World Cup, India finds itself in Group A, starting its campaign against the United States on the opening day, followed by matches against Namibia, Pakistan, and the Netherlands, aiming to establish an early momentum in the tournament.