Cricket
The BCCI has asked the Centre of Excellence in Bengaluru to keep Riyan Parag match-ready ahead of the T20 World Cup 2026.
Washington Sundar’s recovery from a side strain is taking longer than expected, putting his availability for the early World Cup games in doubt.
Sundar suffered the injury during the first ODI against New Zealand and was ruled out of the remaining ODIs and the T20I series.
Riyan Parag has been identified as a like-for-like backup option if Sundar fails to regain full fitness in time for the tournament.
Parag has been training at the CoE, has resumed full-intensity batting and bowling, and is scheduled to play simulation matches soon.
Although not part of the current squad, Parag has been asked to stay on standby and report if required when the team assembles in Mumbai.
Cricket