India’s preparations for the ICC Males’s T20 World Cup 2026 have encountered a possible hurdle, with Washington Sundar set to endure a decisive health evaluation on February 4 on the BCCI Centre of Excellence in Bengaluru. The check comes simply three days earlier than India start their World Cup marketing campaign on February 7, leaving little margin for error concerning the spin-bowling all-rounder’s availability.
Washington has been sidelined since struggling a facet pressure throughout the first ODI in opposition to New Zealand on January 11, and his restoration has reportedly taken longer than initially anticipated.
Restoration of Washington Sundar’s damage taking longer than anticipated
In keeping with a report by TOI, Washington’s rehabilitation has progressed cautiously, with the BCCI opting to not rush his return. Whereas the Indian board has not formally disclosed the character of the damage, sources recommend that the all-rounder sustained a again muscle tear close to the rib space.
A BCCI supply indicated that Washington didn’t take part in any intense coaching drills throughout a current session on the Centre of Excellence, highlighting the necessity for pure therapeutic earlier than he can resume the return-to-play course of. “Washington’s damage must heal naturally earlier than he comes again to the return-to-play course of,” the supply stated.
The upcoming health check is anticipated to offer readability on whether or not he will be thought of match-ready in time for the match.
Choice committee awaits medical replace on Sundar earlier than backup plans
Regardless of the uncertainty, India’s selectors and crew administration are reportedly prepared to attend for an official medical replace earlier than finalising contingency plans. Groups have till January 30 to make modifications to their squads, although damage replacements should still be permitted throughout the match if accepted by the technical committee.
India are scheduled to assemble in Mumbai on February 3 for his or her first coaching session, earlier than enjoying a warm-up match in opposition to South Africa on February 4 – the identical day Washington is because of take his health check.
Whereas Sundar stays underneath statement, different members of the squad have continued their preparations. Tilak Varma just lately featured in a simulation match on the Centre of Excellence, underlining his readiness for the upcoming ICC match.
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Staff steadiness stays steady regardless of Sundar’s health issues
Even with Sundar’s health unsure, the Indian crew administration seems assured in regards to the general steadiness of the squad. Vice-captain Axar Patel has featured in just one match throughout the ongoing T20I sequence in opposition to New Zealand, but the crew has appeared settled and composed.
Riyan Parag is considered internally as a like-for-like alternative for Washington when it comes to talent set, providing off-spin and batting flexibility. Regardless of the absence of a specialist spin-bowling all-rounder in current matches, India have managed to take care of equilibrium of their mixtures.
The ultimate name on Sundar could rely on the timeline of his restoration moderately than instant availability.
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