Big concern for India as star Indian all-rounder remains unfit ahead of T20 World Cup 2026

Team India is one of the favourites to win the 2026 T20 World Cup, which will be held in India and Sri Lanka. They look like one of the strongest teams in the tournament. As the matches will be played in home conditions, Suryakumar Yadav’s side will aim to defend the title. India will begin their campaign against the USA on February 7. The team has won 26 of their last 36 T20I bilateral series since the 2024 World Cup.

However, ahead of the big event, India has suffered an injury setback. Star all-rounder Washington Sundar is still not fully fit after picking up a rib injury during the India vs New Zealand ODI at the BCA Stadium in Vadodara. He has been named in India’s 15-member squad for the tournament.

With only a few days left before the World Cup begins, Sundar’s fitness remains a concern. As per earlier reports, he is expected to undergo a fitness test on February 4, 2026, at the BCCI Centre of Excellence. The team management has not announced any replacement yet and is waiting for the official medical report.

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Washington Sundar’s Fitness Update Ahead of T20 World Cup

As per recent reports, Tamil Nadu all-rounder Washington Sundar has made good progress in his recovery. He has completed four batting sessions so far. On February 2, he bowled four overs of spot bowling. He is scheduled to bowl again on February 4 to check if his injured rib can handle the workload. After this session, the team management will decide the next steps in his recovery and whether he is fit to play in the World Cup.

A journalist also shared an update on social media, saying that Sundar is not fully fit yet but has shown positive signs during his rehabilitation. His next bowling session will be key in deciding his availability.

Tilak Varma Back in the Squad, Replacement Options Open

Tilak Varma, who missed the New Zealand series, has returned to action. He was part of the India A squad that played a warm-up match against the USA, where he scored 38 runs off 24 balls and looked in good form. He has been an important player for India in recent times in T20 cricket.

If Washington Sundar fails to recover in time, India have a few options. Ravi Bishnoi, who did well against New Zealand, is one possible replacement. Shreyas Iyer is another option who can fit into the squad. Apart from Sundar, India already have Varun Chakaravarthy, Axar Patel, and Kuldeep Yadav as spin options.