The Indian team has received another jolt as all-rounder Washington Sundar will miss the five match T20I series against New Zealand that will begin shortly after the ODI series. The Tamil Nadu, all-rounder, who was ruled out of the last two ODIs because of a side strain will now miss the T20 series as well which will be the last before the T20 World Cup.
During the first ODI against New Zealand at Vadodara, Washington suffered pain in his side strain and after scans he was advised a few weeks rest. Though he was in line to feature in the T20Is, it is understood that the medical team has advised Sundar two weeks of rest and he would head to the BCCI’s Centre of Excellence next week to start his recovery.
It is understood that with Washington part of the T20 World Cup squad, the team management didn’t want to risk him in the series against New Zealand. Initially, it was expected that Washington could play in the later part of the series. However, he will not feature in the series, but there is a likelihood he could join the team at later stages with an eye on the T20 World Cup.
“Washington Sundar reported an acute onset discomfort in his left lower rib area while bowling during the first ODI against New Zealand at the BCA Stadium, Vadodara, on Sunday,” a BCCI statement said on Monday.
Indian paCer Harshit Rana was asked about Washington injury after the game and he stated, “Washington Sundar has a side strain. He was in pain while batting. Our medical team will assess and will update.”
Washington bowled only five overs and post injury he left the field. However he did come out to bat after India had a sudden middle order collapse. He scored seven runs from seven deliveries and ensured an important stand with KL Rahul which helped India win their first ODI game.
Since making his international debut in 2017, due to different injuries Washington has missed two T20 World Cups in 2021 and 2022. This was the first time he was included in a World Cup team.
Stay updated with the latest sports news across Cricket, Football, Chess, and more. Catch all the action with real-time live cricket score updates and in-depth coverage of ongoing matches.
© The Indian Express Pvt Ltd
