Washington Sundar Still in T20 World Cup Contention as Selectors Await Fitness Update

With just two days to go before the start of the T20 World Cup, the Indian selection committee, led by Ajit Agarkar, is holding off on naming a replacement for injured all-rounder Washington Sundar, indicating he remains in the frame for the tournament.

The 26-year-old, who suffered a side strain during the first ODI against New Zealand last month, missed India’s warm-up match against South Africa on Wednesday as he continues his rehabilitation at the BCCI Centre of Excellence (CoE). Sources indicate the selectors and team management are awaiting a detailed fitness report from the CoE staff before making a final call.

While there is no clear timeline on how long the think-tank will wait, there appears to be no immediate rush to replace Sundar. The final decision will hinge on the medical advice from the CoE’s physios and trainers, who have not yet ruled out his availability for the marquee event.

In another fitness update, the BCCI has reportedly not received any concerning information about pacer Harshit Rana, who left the field after bowling just one over in the same warm-up match. The Delhi and KKR bowler conceded 16 runs in his over and later batted, remaining not out on zero, but there is no indication of a serious injury at this stage.

The selection committee’s patience suggests Sundar’s all-round skills—particularly his economical off-spin and handy lower-order batting—are still considered valuable for India’s campaign, provided he can regain match fitness in time.

                                               

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