Published on: Feb 9, 2026 6:26 pm IST|Updated on: Feb 9, 2026 6:26 pm IST
Team India received a timely boost ahead of their second Group A clash against Namibia on February 12 in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026, with all-rounder Washington Sundar set to join the squad in Delhi. The Tamil Nadu cricketer, who had been sidelined due to a side strain and rib muscle tear sustained during the ODI series against New Zealand, has completed his rehabilitation and is now fit to return.
India captain Suryakumar Yadav confirmed the development after India’s 29-run win over the United States in their opening fixture.
“Washington Sundar is fit and will be joining the squad directly in Delhi (ahead of the Namibia game),” Surya said at the post-match presentation ceremony.
He also provided updates on Jasprit Bumrah and Abhishek Sharma, noting that Bumrah was down with high fever while Abhishek was “under the weather.”
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India’s campaign began on a nervy note against the USA at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai. Reduced to 77/6 in the 13th over, the Men in Blue were rescued by skipper Suryakumar Yadav’s unbeaten 84 off 49 balls, which helped them post 161. Despite missing Bumrah due to illness and fielding a half-fit Abhishek Sharma, India’s bowlers restricted the USA to 132/8, securing a crucial opening win.
The addition of Washington Sundar strengthens India’s squad; he may not get a game straight away, courtesy of the team’s composition, but remains a vital part of the squad if an injury arises to any of the members. Sundar’s ability to contribute both with the ball and bat makes him a valuable asset in the squad.
Washington Sundar’s absence had been a concern for the team management. He sustained a side strain and rib muscle tear during the ODI series against New Zealand, ruling him out of the subsequent T20I series and the early stages of the World Cup. The BCCI opted not to replace him in the squad, confident that his injury was not too serious.
The 26-year-old underwent an intense rehabilitation program at the National Cricket Academy in Bengaluru, focusing on strengthening his core and ensuring full recovery. His return comes at a crucial juncture, as India prepares for back-to-back group matches against Namibia and Pakistan.
While Sundar’s inclusion is positive news, India’s camp has been dealing with health issues. Jasprit Bumrah, the spearhead of India’s pace attack, missed the USA game due to a high fever. Abhishek Sharma, who made his World Cup debut, was also unwell and did not field for long stretches, with Sanju Samson stepping in as a substitute.
Suryakumar Yadav reassured fans about the situation:
“Washy is joining us in Delhi. He’s good. Everything is fine. Bumrah, he was having high fever because of the weather, like how Abhishek was also under the weather.”
With Washington Sundar’s return, India’s spin bowling has been boosted. He adds depth to India’s spin department, which already features Kuldeep Yadav, Axar Patel, and Varun Chakaravarthy. His off-spin provides variation, while his batting ability offers flexibility in the lower middle order.
Moreover, Sundar’s calm temperament and ability to handle pressure situations make him a reliable option in crunch moments. His inclusion also allows India to experiment with combinations, potentially giving Hardik Pandya more freedom as a batting all-rounder.
India’s next fixture against Namibia on February 12 in Delhi will be crucial in consolidating their position in Group A. One more win and Team India will have their position almost certain in the Super 8s. Their bigger challenge, however, looms against Pakistan, a fixture that always carries high stakes and emotional intensity. There’s still no clarity if the fixture will go ahead as per schedule after the Pakistan government made it clear that their team will boycott that game. The Pakistan Cricket Board is yet to give their verdict on the government’s decision, but as of now, it seems like there’s no Indo-Pak clash in the ICC T20 World Cup 2026.
Tags: T20 World Cup 2026