IND vs NZ: Washington Sundar ruled out of T20I series; T20 World Cup 2026 spot in jeopardy
(Courtesy : Getty Images)
Washington Sundar’s injury adds headaches ahead of the T20 World Cup 2026
India’s preparations for the ICC T20 World Cup 2026 have suffered a significant setback with Washington Sundar ruled out of the upcoming five-match T20I series against New Zealand (IND vs NZ).
The all-rounder is still recovering from a side strain sustained during the opening ODI in Baroda, where he was forced off the field after bowling five overs and later batted in visible discomfort.
Already sidelined from the remainder of the ODI series and replaced by Ayush Badoni, Sundar’s absence from the T20Is starting January 21 has now raised serious doubts over his availability for the T20 World Cup, which begins on February 7.
The timing could not be worse for India, who are in the final phase of fine-tuning their squad for title defence in the upcoming World Cup.
India’s ICC T20 World Cup plans affected by injuries
Washington Sundar’s injury is compounded by uncertainty surrounding Tilak Varma, who recently underwent surgery for an abdominal issue picked up during the Vijay Hazare Trophy 2025–26.
Although Tilak’s recovery is progressing, he remains in a race against time to be match-fit for the global tournament.
On paper, the Suryakumar Yadav-led side still looks formidable. India have won all their bilateral series in the build-up to the World Cup and boast depth in batting, pace, spin and all-round options. However, Sundar’s absence is a big blow.
The off-spinning all-rounder has been one of India’s most reliable performers in T20Is, picking up 20 wickets in 16 innings at an impressive average of 13.05 and an economy of 6.16, while also contributing 147 runs, including a match-winning 49* in Australia.
Sundar’s replacement options
With Sundar unavailable, the selectors will look for a potential replacement. Rajasthan Royals star Riyan Parag is currently in the driver’s seat, having featured in nine T20Is, and brings value with both bat and ball.
Despite a modest Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy, Parag impressed in IPL 2025, scoring 393 runs at an average of 32.75. Another name in contention is Delhi Capitals all-rounder Vipraj Nigam, who picked up 15 wickets in the Vijay Hazare Trophy for Uttar Pradesh.
The ICC’s January 31 deadline for squad changes provides some breathing space, with further replacements allowed mid-tournament subject to approval.
For now, though, Sundar’s injury has added an unexpected layer of uncertainty to India’s T20 World Cup 2026 campaign.
Why was Washington Sundar ruled out of the IND vs NZ T20I series?
Sundar is recovering from a side strain sustained during the first ODI in Baroda.
Is Washington Sundar’s T20 World Cup 2026 participation in doubt?
Yes, his availability is uncertain due to injury and limited recovery time.
Who could replace Washington Sundar in the T20I squad?
Riyan Parag and Vipraj Nigam are the leading like-for-like replacement options.
For more updates, follow Khel Now Cricket on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Youtube; download the Khel Now Android App or IOS App and join our community on Whatsapp & Telegram.
Vishwajit Sawant is a sports content writer with two years of experience who believes in writing that feels honest, simple, and easy to read. He enjoys breaking down sporting moments into stories readers can genuinely connect with, without relying on fancy vocabulary. His work spans cricket, football, basketball, tennis, and Formula 1, with a focus on match previews, reviews, and reports. Vishwajit believes good content doesn’t need to be loud — it just needs to leave a subtle impact.