The BCCI has asked the Centre of Excellence (CoE) in Bengaluru to keep Riyan Parag match-ready, as no one actually knows how certain Washington Sundar’s availability is for the early part of the T20 World Cup 2026. With Sundar’s recovery from a side strain taking longer than expected, the selectors are preparing for a scenario where he may not be available for the opening matches of the tournament.
Sundar suffered the injury during the first ODI against New Zealand in Vadodara, when he felt discomfort in his left lower rib area while bowling. He managed only five overs and was ruled out of the remaining ODIs and the ongoing T20I series. The medical team has advised further rest, and reports indicate that he still needs around two weeks to be fully fit, putting his availability for India’s February 7 World Cup opener in Mumbai under serious doubt.
With no official warm-up matches scheduled by the ICC (as of now), the Indian team is exploring the possibility of a practice game on February 4, either against South Africa or through an intra-squad fixture against India ‘A’. In that context, Parag has been identified as a like-for-like backup option and has been told to be ready if required as per the Times of India.
Where is Riyan Parag currently?
Parag has been at the CoE for the past three weeks, recovering from a shoulder injury that required surgery. The 24-year-old returned to competitive cricket during the Ranji Trophy earlier this month but suffered a flare-up during the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy, which ruled him out of the Vijay Hazare Trophy. He isn’t part of the second leg of the Ranji Trophy as well. His last competitive outing came on December 6.
For the Rajasthan Royals (RR), Parag captained in a few games as well last season. He made 393 runs at 166.53 SR in what was a disappointing campaign for the Royals. This time, RR are yet to announce their designated captain as well following the trade of Sanju Samson. Parag remains a prime candidate to lead in IPL 2026.
Parag has resumed batting and bowling at full intensity in the nets and is not experiencing any pain. He is scheduled to play two simulation matches on January 28 and January 30, following which a final clearance will be taken on January 31. He has been asked to be on standby to report to Mumbai when the Indian squad assembles on February 2. While he is not part of the current World Cup squad, the selectors see him as a flexible option if Sundar fails to recover in time.
