Washington Sundar Injury Update: Star all-rounder likely to be ruled out from IND-NZ ODI series

India all-rounder Washington Sundar may not get a chance with the bat in the first ODI against New Zealand in Vadodara after leaving the field during the Kiwis’ innings. The off-spinner, who bowled five overs, was seen clutching his back and is suspected to be dealing with a side strain.

The BCCI medical team is expected to provide an official update soon, but the signs suggest that India won’t risk Sundar in the batting department. The series, which isn’t a high-stakes affair, doesn’t warrant pushing him when he might be carrying even a minor niggle.

Sundar to miss remaining games

Sundar is also on track to miss the remaining two ODIs in the series, with the second game in Rajkot on January 14 and the final match in Indore on January 18. While two ODIs over a week isn’t an excessive workload, a side strain or back issue is never something a player should rush.

Upcoming T20 World Cup

With the T20 World Cup 2026 starting on February 7 and IPL 2026 around the corner, Sundar’s fitness is crucial. In sub-continental conditions, he’s a handy utility player for India’s T20 squad, even if he isn’t guaranteed a starting spot. The team is likely prioritizing his long-term readiness over the short-term gains of the ongoing ODI series.

After Sundar left the field, Nitish Reddy took over as a substitute fielder. With five T20Is against New Zealand acting as a final buildup to the World Cup, India’s management will want all players, especially Sundar, to be fully fit and firing for the marquee event.

For Sundar, it’s a matter of managing fitness carefully to stay fresh for the T20 World Cup, rather than risking aggravation in a series with limited stakes.