India’s injury worries have gone from bad to worse in Vadodara. Just 24 hours after Rishabh Pant was ruled out of the ODI series, a new cloud now hangs over Washington Sundar’s availability for the remaining two matches against New Zealand. The all-rounder suffered a side strain during the first ODI on Sunday and is now facing a race against time to remain part of the series. India would not take risks with Sundar, as he is also part of the T20 World Cup 2026 squad.
Sundar’s discomfort first became evident when he left the field after completing his fifth over in New Zealand’s innings. Nitish Kumar Reddy, who was the 12th man in the game, came on as the substitute fielder. Though Sundar later walked out to bat at No. 8 during India’s chase, he was visibly struggling between the wickets and could barely push for singles.
At the post-match press conference, Harshit Rana confirmed the nature of the injury. “Washington Sundar has a side strain. He was in pain while batting. Our medical team will assess and will update,” Rana said.
Another fitness blow for Shubman Gill’s India
Right after the match, even Shubman Gill was posed a question on Sundar’s progress. “Washington Sundar has a side strain and will go for a scan after the match,” the India captain confirmed at the presentation. KL Rahul, who stayed with Sundar during the tense finish, admitted he was unaware of the severity of the problem while the match was unfolding. “I didn’t know he couldn’t run. I knew he had some discomfort in the first innings but wasn’t aware of the extent. He was striking the ball really well,” Rahul said.
Sundar eventually made 7 off 7 balls, and Rahul closed the game with lusty blows, handing India a 1–0 lead. But the bigger worry sits outside the result. As of Monday, January 11, the BCCI has not issued any official update on whether Sundar will be withdrawn from the series or whether a replacement will be named. Pant, too, suffered a side strain just before the series and was ruled out, with Dhruv Jurel drafted in hours before the opening ODI.
With the T20 World Cup less than a month away, the management will be extremely cautious. Sundar could be a vital cog in India’s T20 setup, especially in home conditions.
Cricket
Exclusive | 'Wasn't expecting that call' – Devdutt Padikkal on last-minute IND vs NZ selection after Rishabh Pant injury
