India’s preparations for the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 have encountered a potential hurdle, with Washington Sundar set to undergo a decisive fitness assessment on February 4 at the BCCI Centre of Excellence in Bengaluru. The test comes just three days before India begin their World Cup campaign on February 7, leaving little margin for error regarding the spin-bowling all-rounder’s availability.
Washington has been sidelined since suffering a side strain during the first ODI against New Zealand on January 11, and his recovery has reportedly taken longer than initially expected.
Recovery of Washington Sundar’s injury taking longer than anticipated
According to a report by TOI, Washington’s rehabilitation has progressed cautiously, with the BCCI opting not to rush his return. While the Indian board has not officially disclosed the nature of the injury, sources suggest that the all-rounder sustained a back muscle tear near the rib area.
A BCCI source indicated that Washington did not participate in any intense training drills during a recent session at the Centre of Excellence, highlighting the need for natural healing before he can resume the return-to-play process. “Washington’s injury needs to heal naturally before he comes back to the return-to-play process,” the source said.
The upcoming fitness test is expected to provide clarity on whether he can be considered match-ready in time for the tournament.
Selection committee awaits medical update on Sundar before backup plans
Despite the uncertainty, India’s selectors and team management are reportedly willing to wait for an official medical update before finalising contingency plans. Teams have until January 30 to make changes to their squads, though injury replacements may still be permitted during the tournament if approved by the technical committee.
India are scheduled to assemble in Mumbai on February 3 for their first training session, before playing a warm-up match against South Africa on February 4 – the same day Washington is due to take his fitness test.
While Sundar remains under observation, other members of the squad have continued their preparations. Tilak Varma recently featured in a simulation match at the Centre of Excellence, underlining his readiness for the upcoming ICC tournament.
Team balance remains stable despite Sundar’s fitness concerns
Even with Sundar’s fitness in doubt, the Indian team management appears confident about the overall balance of the squad. Vice-captain Axar Patel has featured in only one match during the ongoing T20I series against New Zealand, yet the team has looked settled and composed.
Riyan Parag is viewed internally as a like-for-like replacement for Washington in terms of skill set, offering off-spin and batting flexibility. Despite the absence of a specialist spin-bowling all-rounder in recent matches, India have managed to maintain equilibrium in their combinations.
The final call on Sundar may depend on the timeline of his recovery rather than immediate availability.
