Washington Sundar Ruled Out of ODI Series with Injury Ahead of T20 World Cup

India’s preparations for the upcoming T20 World Cup have been disrupted by the news that all-rounder Washington Sundar will miss the remaining two one-day internationals against New Zealand due to rib discomfort. The injury was reported following Sundar’s performance in the first ODI, where he experienced pain in his left lower rib while bowling.

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) confirmed the situation in a statement on January 12, 2024. The board indicated that Sundar will undergo further scans to assess the injury, and they plan to consult with medical experts for additional guidance. The all-rounder is a crucial part of India’s 15-man squad for the T20 World Cup, which is set to begin on February 7, 2024, and will be co-hosted by India and Sri Lanka.

Sundar’s absence from the ODI series is a significant concern for the Indian team, especially as they aim to defend their title in the World Cup. Following Sundar’s injury, Ayush Badoni has been named as his replacement and will join the ODI squad in Rajkot ahead of the second match against New Zealand on January 14, 2024.

The Indian team secured a victory in the opening ODI by four wickets, showcasing their competitive spirit. However, the loss of Sundar, known for his versatility as a spin-bowling all-rounder, poses a challenge as the team looks to finalize their lineup for the global tournament.

As the T20 World Cup approaches, the Indian coaching staff will be monitoring Sundar’s recovery closely. The team hopes to have him fit and ready for the tournament, where they will face strong competition from other cricketing nations.