India’s off-spin all-rounder Washington Sundar will miss the remaining two matches of the ODI series against New Zealand due to a side strain sustained during the series opener in Vadodara. It is uncertain if he will recover in time for the upcoming five-match T20I series starting on January 21 in Nagpur.
Sundar suffered the side strain after being hit on the left rib during the first ODI in Vadodara. The team is awaiting further updates on his availability for the T20Is as recovery from such an injury typically requires time.
Skipper Shubman Gill mentioned that Sundar underwent scans post-match to assess the injury. The medical team is monitoring his condition closely to determine the extent of the injury and the recovery timeline.
Harshit Rana, addressing reporters at a post-match press conference, confirmed Sundar’s side strain and mentioned that the medical team will evaluate his condition further to provide updates on his recovery progress.
The absence of Sundar poses a significant challenge for the Indian team, especially with the upcoming T20 World Cup on the horizon. His availability for the World Cup remains uncertain, adding to the team’s concerns ahead of the tournament.
This injury setback marks the third blow for India in the ongoing series against New Zealand, following Rishabh Pant and Tilak Varma’s injuries. Pant was ruled out due to a side strain, while Varma underwent surgery for a groin injury, impacting the team’s composition for the upcoming matches.
