India faces uncertainty ahead of the 2026 T20 World Cup due to Washington Sundar’s injury. Captain Suryakumar Yadav emphasizes patience, while discussions around Ishan Kishan replacing Sanju Samson spark debate over India’s final playing XI.
India Faces Sundar Injury Worry Ahead of T20 World Cup (Image Source: Internet)
New Delhi: The 2026 T20 World Cup is set to begin on February 7, with India opening its campaign against the USA on the very first day. However, the Indian team faces a major concern as all eyes are on Washington Sundar’s fitness.
The all-rounder has not yet fully recovered from an injury sustained during the ODI series against New Zealand, leaving the team management in a delicate situation just days before the global tournament.
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Washington Sundar suffered a side strain during India’s ODI series against New Zealand. Following a thorough medical examination, it was confirmed that he required rest to fully recover from the injury.
This sidelined him for the T20 series against New Zealand, and now with the World Cup looming, Sundar’s availability remains uncertain. His absence could impact India’s team balance, particularly in the all-rounder and spin-bowling departments.
Addressing the media on February 5, Indian captain Suryakumar Yadav stressed patience regarding Sundar’s situation. He clarified that the team management does not want to rush into naming a replacement prematurely.
“We will handle the Washington Sundar case with patience. We don’t want to make hasty decisions about replacements,” said Yadav during the captains’ press conference.
The captain also highlighted the freedom given to players by head coach Gautam Gambhir to play their natural game. Yadav cited Ishan Kishan’s recent century, which included several sixes, as an example of the positive impact of this approach.
This underscores India’s strategy to rely on players’ instincts while keeping options open for squad adjustments.
Speculation about India’s final playing XI is growing, with particular attention on the opening slot. Many experts suggest that Sanju Samson might miss out on the final XI due to form concerns.
In his place, the in-form Ishan Kishan, who has scored a century and two half-centuries since his return to the team, could be a strong candidate. This move would provide India with a more aggressive start and enhance its batting depth.
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With the World Cup just around the corner, the Indian team management faces crucial decisions. Washington Sundar’s fitness remains the key uncertainty, while the opening combination and overall balance of the squad continue to be hot topics.
The team’s flexibility, coupled with the trust in players’ natural game, will likely determine India’s strategy as it embarks on its 2026 T20 World Cup journey.
