Washington Sundar’s T20 World Cup 2026 Hopes Hang on Fitness

Given that the injured all-rounder would require an additional two weeks to properly recuperate, Washington Sundar is in a race against time to be fully ready for the T20 World Cup. Due to a rib injury sustained in the first ODI in Vadodara, which also prevented him from playing in the final two ODIs, Sundar was forced to miss the current five-match T20I series against New Zealand. With only a few weeks till the World Cup, the management of the Indian team must think about backup plans. Riyan Parag and Ravi Bishnoi are anticipated to cover any gaps.

There isn't much room for uncertainty regarding the T20 World Cup, which will take place in Sri Lanka and India starting on February 7. India's only warm-up match is scheduled for February 4 in Mumbai. Sundar's position is more problematic, while Tilak Varma's recuperation is going nicely. The Tamil Nadu all-rounder was sidelined for the rest of the ODI and T20I series after suffering a side injury during the first ODI against New Zealand in Vadodara. 

Washington Sundar in T20 World Cup 2026:

🚨Big update on the Indian team for the T20 World Cup🚨

Washington Sundar is not fully fit, so he is likely to miss the T20 WC.

Riyan Parag passed the Yo-Yo Test today and is set to replace Sundar in the squad.

Wait for official confirmation.🤞🏻pic.twitter.com/TJxqFkKVeN

— CricSachin (@Sachin_Gandhi7) January 26, 2026

According to the BCCI's statement, Sundar complained of sudden pain in his left lower ribs while bowling in the first ODI. After being injured, the 26-year-old departed the field after bowling just five overs. He did, however, step out to bat following India's abrupt middle-order collapse. India won the opening ODI thanks to his seven runs from seven deliveries and a crucial stand with KL Rahul.

Riyan Parag has been viewed as the most likely substitute as Sundar's availability is unknown. The all-rounder for the Rajasthan Royals is almost finished recovering from a shoulder injury at the BCCI's Centre of Excellence. In order to evaluate match fitness, Parag will participate in two simulated matches after passing his Yo-Yo Test.

Parag is a good choice since he is a batting all-rounder who can bowl spin, even if he did not bowl in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy and scored respectable runs. In the meantime, Ravi Bishnoi's performance has bolstered his argument. With scores of 2/18 in the third Twenty20 International against New Zealand, the leg-spinner, who was called into the team in Sundar's absence, appeared to be in good form.

Watch this space for more cricket news and updates.