Washington Sundar ruled out of New Zealand T20Is ahead of World Cup

India’s preparations for the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 have endured a setback with star all-rounder Washington Sundar being ruled out of the upcoming five-match T20I series against New Zealand. The development comes just weeks before the World Cup begins, and has added to India’s growing injury concerns, with Tilak Varma also racing against time to regain full fitness.

Sundar sustained a side strain during the first ODI against New Zealand in Vadodara. The right-arm spinner bowled only five overs in the first innings before leaving the field due to discomfort in his left lower rib area. Though there were doubts over whether he would bat, Sundar still walked in during the chase after India’s late collapse. He scored seven runs off seven balls and stayed till the end, helping the Men in Blue secure a four-wicket win.

Following scans, the all-rounder was ruled out of the remainder of the ODI series, with Ayush Badoni named as his replacement. While it was initially expected that he might return for the latter part of the T20I series, the medical team has now advised him to take at least two weeks of rest.

Washington Sundar to visit BCCI's CoE to begin his recovery

Sundar’s absence from the New Zealand T20Is, starting January 21, is a huge blow for India. According to a BCCI official, the all-rounder has been ruled out due to the side strain and will head to the BCCI’s Centre of Excellence to begin his recovery.

With the T20 World Cup set to begin on February 7, Sundar now faces a race against time to regain fitness. The team management has chosen not to risk him in the bilateral series, keeping the bigger picture in mind. While there is a possibility that he could join the squad later.

The 26-year-old has been one of India’s most effective T20I all-rounders in recent years. He has picked up 20 wickets in 16 innings at an average of 13.05 and an economy rate of 6.16. With the bat, he has added depth to the lower order, including a match-winning 49* off 23 balls in Australia. 

Meanwhile, adding to India’s worries is Tilak Varma’s fitness. The left-hander recently underwent surgery for an abdominal issue and has already been ruled out of the first few T20Is against New Zealand.