Washington Sundar Takes First Steps in Recovery with Batting Session
In an encouraging development for Indian cricket fans, all-rounder Washington Sundar has resumed batting practice as part of his ongoing rehabilitation program. The 26-year-old cricketer is currently undergoing treatment at the BCCI Centre of Excellence (CoE) in Bengaluru, where he recently completed a batting session lasting approximately thirty minutes.
Injury Details and Medical Assessment
The batting practice comes despite continued tenderness around Sundar's rib area, which has kept him away from competitive cricket for several weeks. Medical evaluations have revealed that the player is dealing with more than just a side strain - he has been diagnosed with a mild fracture in addition to the muscle injury.
Before arriving at the Bengaluru facility, Sundar consulted with renowned sports medicine specialist Dr. Dinshaw Pardiwala. Initial assessments indicated an internal oblique muscle tear, but subsequent follow-up examinations uncovered the additional fracture complication.
T20 World Cup Timeline and Recovery Challenges
With India's opening T20 World Cup match against the United States scheduled for February 7, Sundar faces a race against time to regain full fitness. Cricket experts suggest that only a miraculous recovery would enable his participation from the tournament's beginning.
The Indian team management appears to be adopting a patient and cautious approach to Sundar's rehabilitation, understanding the complexity of his injury and the importance of proper healing time.
Team Strategy and Replacement Considerations
Sundar's potential absence presents a significant challenge for the Indian team, particularly due to his unique skill combination as an off-spinning all-rounder. Coach Gautam Gambhir and captain Suryakumar Yadav have emphasized the strategic importance of having an off-spinner in the squad, especially for matchups against left-handed batsmen.
This tactical requirement explains why Ravi Bishnoi was included in the squad for the ongoing New Zealand series. Bishnoi's selection reflects his proven effectiveness against left-handed batsmen and consistent ability to turn the ball away from them.
Current Status and Future Prospects
A source familiar with the situation revealed that Sundar remains very much in India's World Cup plans, with approximately fifteen days remaining before India's crucial match against Pakistan. The final decision regarding his participation will only be made when all recovery possibilities have been exhausted.
The source further explained the selection dilemma: "There aren't many options of off-spinners and bowling all-rounders available at the moment. Sundar was specifically selected for his matchups against left-handers, which is precisely why Ravi Bishnoi has been given an opportunity in the New Zealand series."
Official BCCI Statement and Injury Background
The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) had previously issued an official statement regarding Sundar's injury ahead of the New Zealand T20 Internationals. According to the January 16 announcement, Sundar experienced acute onset discomfort in his lower rib area while bowling during the first ODI against New Zealand at Vadodara's BCA Stadium on January 11.
Following scans and expert consultation, he was diagnosed with a side strain and advised rest before reporting to the BCCI Centre of Excellence for specialized injury management.
As the T20 World Cup approaches, all eyes remain on Sundar's recovery progress, with Indian cricket enthusiasts hoping for positive developments in the coming days that might enable his participation in the prestigious tournament.
