According to reports, the Indian selectors in the BCCI are worried about Washington Sundar’s recovery and hence have started looking for backup options for the all-rounder. Riyan Parag has emerged as a leading candidate whose other options will be explored through the warm-up matches.
India have been the most promising T20I team since the 2024 T20 World Cup; However, his flawless campaign has been hampered due to several injuries ahead of the ICC T20 World Cup. Injuries to several players in the defending champions’ 15-man squad for the World Cup have been a major concern.
Tilak Verma and Washington Sundar are among the leading figures who are battling injury concerns ahead of the prestigious tournament. With Verma’s recovery back on track, the main concern is about Sundar. Apart from this, Axar Patel also suffered a serious injury during the first T20 match against New Zealand.
BCCI plans to schedule a warm-up match before the World Cup
India will begin their World Cup campaign on February 7, and after the New Zealand series, they have no practice matches scheduled before the start of the World Cup. However, given the team’s latest struggles due to injuries, India would like to play one last match to test their resources.
TOI has claimed that the BCCI is planning to schedule a warm-up match against either South Africa, the last edition’s runner-up, or an intra-squad game against the India A team.
The Indian team for the World Cup is scheduled to assemble in Mumbai on February 2 and the BCCI is planning a match on February 4. If a practice game takes place, it is likely to be held at Brabourne Stadium.
Indian selectors looking for backup to Washington Sundar
As reports have revealed, the BCCI and the Indian selectors are currently looking for backups for Tilak Verma and Washington Sundar. While Tilak’s recovery is on track and he is likely to be at his peak before India’s second World Cup clash, Sundar’s recovery has been delayed.
“Washington’s recovery from a side strain is taking longer than expected. The selectors are preparing for a situation where he may not be fit for the opening matches of the World Cup.”
A BCCI source said, “Tilak’s recovery has gone well. Currently, plans are being made for his return to the game. The team management is confident that he will be in good shape by the second match on February 12. The selectors want the team to be strong by the time the match against Pakistan in Colombo on February 15.”
Ravi Bishnoi has been included in the Indian squad for the NZ T20I series as a replacement for Washington Sundar. He entered the field as a replacement for Axar Patel in the first match and then played in the third match of the series. On his return he took 2 wickets for just 18 runs.
Riyan Parag has been cited as an equal replacement for Sundar
Indian all-rounder Riyan Parag, who is currently recovering from a shoulder injury at the BCCI CoE, has been asked to be ready for the practice match if needed. The CoE has been instructed to prepare Parag for his return and he has been asked to be available in Mumbai on February 2.
It is learned that Riyan Parag has to play two simulation matches on January 28 and 30 before being cleared by the CoE on January 31. The selectors, worried about Washington’s availability, have found a replacement in Riyan Parag.
Sundar, who suffered an injury to the muscles between his ribs and lower back, may not be available for the entire IPL if his recovery is rushed and hence, the BCCI does not want to take any risks with the cricket. However, several other players will also be evaluated along with Riyan Parag in the practice match.
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