India have been dealt a significant setback ahead of the third and final ODI against England, with all-rounder Washington Sundar has been ruled out. The decisive encounter at Lord’s will determine the winner of the three-match series after both teams produced convincing victories in the opening two fixtures.
The series has been evenly poised so far. India began the campaign with a commanding win at Edgbaston, where they bowled England out for 258 before comfortably chasing the target with six wickets in hand. Captain Shubman Gill led from the front with a composed knock as India reached 262/4 in just 45.2 overs.
England, however, responded strongly in the second ODI at Cardiff. The hosts restricted India to 233 before completing the chase in 44.1 overs, thanks largely to Joe Root‘s unbeaten 99. With the series locked at 1-1, all eyes are now on the iconic Lord’s Cricket Ground, where the two sides will battle for the trophy.
Why Washington Sundar has been ruled out of the 3rd ODI?
Washington sustained a right hamstring injury while batting during the second ODI in Cardiff. Although he managed to complete a brief five-ball stay at the crease, the discomfort was evident as he required heavy strapping on his right leg. The injury appeared serious enough to affect his movement immediately after his innings. Washington was seen struggling to climb the stairs leading back to the dressing room and was subsequently unable to take the field during England’s run chase.
The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) later confirmed that the 26-year-old has been ruled out of the Lord’s ODI. According to the board, he will undergo scans and seek specialist medical advice to determine the extent of the injury and the next course of treatment. His absence is a notable blow for India, considering the balance he provides with both bat and ball. Washington has been an important all-round option in the middle order while also offering valuable overs of off-spin, particularly in English conditions.
Replacement announced for Washington
To cover for Washington’s absence, the selectors have added left-arm spinning all-rounder Harsh Dubey to the squad for the series decider. Dubey recently made his ODI debut during India’s home series against Afghanistan and impressed in his very first appearance. The youngster picked up figures of 3/47 in Dharamsala, showcasing his ability to deliver under pressure and earning another opportunity at the international level.
However, his inclusion does not necessarily guarantee a place in the playing XI. India already have Axar Patel performing a similar all-round role, and the experienced left-arm spinner was named Player of the Match in the opening ODI after making a decisive impact. Washington’s injury could also influence India’s bowling combination differently. Rather than opting for another spin-bowling all-rounder, the team management may decide to bring specialist wrist-spinner Kuldeep Yadav into the XI. Interestingly, Kuldeep is yet to feature in the ongoing England tour, making him a strong candidate if India choose to alter their bowling attack.
India’s squad for third ODI (updated): Shubman Gill (captain), Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer (vice-captain), KL Rahul (wicketkeeper), Ishan Kishan (wicketkeeper), Axar Patel, Shivam Dube, Kuldeep Yadav, Jasprit Bumrah, Prasidh Krishna, Arshdeep Singh, Gurnoor Brar, Prince Yadav and Harsh Dubey
