Indian captain Suryakumar Yadav has shared a significant Washington Sundar injury update following India’s clinical 4-1 T20I series victory against New Zealand. The versatile all-rounder, who was sidelined due to a discomforting side strain, has reportedly returned to the nets. His recovery remains a top priority for the team management ahead of the upcoming ICC T20 World Cup 2026.
Suryakumar Yadav Shares Washington Sundar Injury Update
Speaking at the post-match press conference in Thiruvananthapuram, Suryakumar Yadav expressed confidence in Sundar’s rehabilitation process. The skipper revealed that the 24-year-old has already initiated light drills. “Washington has almost started his bowling and batting. He is looking good, and we hope to get him back in the squad soon,” Yadav told reporters.
The injury originally surfaced during the first ODI against New Zealand in Vadodara on January 11. Sundar reported acute discomfort in his lower rib area while completing his bowling quota. Subsequent medical scans and expert consultations confirmed a side strain, necessitating an immediate break from competitive cricket.
Rehabilitation at the BCCI Centre of Excellence
Following the initial rest period advised by specialists, Sundar is slated to report to the BCCI Centre of Excellence (COE). Here, sports science experts will monitor his workload as he transitions back to full-intensity training. The medical team is particularly cautious, given Sundar’s history of freak injuries and his vital role in India’s white-ball balance.
Impact on India’s T20 World Cup 2026 Plans
The timing of the injury caused concern among fans, as Sundar is considered a “lock” for the ICC T20 World Cup 2026 squad. His ability to bowl in the Powerplay and provide left-handed batting depth makes him an indispensable asset. While he missed the recent five-match T20I series, the latest update suggests he will be fit well before the global showpiece event.
Along with Sundar, Tilak Varma is also on the recovery path. Yadav noted that Varma is “much better,” indicating that the Indian bench strength is returning to full health just as the international calendar intensifies.
India Dominates New Zealand in Final T20I
While the injury news grabbed headlines, India’s performance on the field was equally dominant. Choosing to bat first, the Men in Blue posted a massive 271/5. Ishan Kishan led the charge with a blistering 103 off just 43 deliveries, supported by Suryakumar Yadav’s rapid 63. Hardik Pandya provided the finishing touches with a 17-ball 42.
New Zealand’s chase started promisingly through Finn Allen’s 80 and Rachin Ravindra’s 30. However, the Indian bowlers proved too strong. Arshdeep Singh’s five-wicket haul and Axar Patel’s three wickets ensured the Kiwis were bowled out for 225, handing India a 46-run victory and a 4-1 series triumph.
Why Side Strains are Tricky for All-rounders
A side strain involves the internal oblique or the transverse abdominis muscles. For an off-spinner like Sundar, these muscles are crucial during the delivery stride and the follow-through. Rushing a comeback often leads to a recurrence, which explains the BCCI’s conservative approach to his return.
To learn more, follow Shabd Sanchi’s social media pages today and stay updated.
- Facebook: shabdsanchi
- Instagram: shabdsanchiofficial
- YouTube: @shabd_sanchi
- Twitter: shabdsanchi