In a significant blow to India’s cricket preparations, all-rounder Washington Sundar has been officially withdrawn from the upcoming T20 series against New Zealand due to a side strain injury. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) confirmed the development late Friday through an official press release, announcing leg-spinner Ravi Bishnoi as his replacement for the five-match contest.
The injury occurred during the first ODI against New Zealand when Sundar reported acute discomfort in his lower rib area while bowling. Subsequent medical scans revealed the side strain, prompting team physicians to prescribe immediate rest. Following initial recovery, Sundar will report to the BCCI Centre of Excellence for specialized injury management.
This development casts uncertainty over Sundar’s participation in next month’s T20 World Cup, scheduled to be hosted across India and Sri Lanka from February 7 to March 8. The New Zealand series served as a crucial preparation platform for the global tournament, making Sundar’s absence particularly impactful for team strategy.
In additional roster changes, the national selection committee has included batsman Shreyas Iyer for the first three T20 matches, replacing the injured Tilak Varma. The ongoing New Zealand tour comprises three ODIs and five T20Is, representing the final competitive fixtures before both teams embark on their World Cup campaigns.