Indian cricketer Washington Sundar is set to face a crucial fitness test at the Board of Control for Cricket in India’s Centre of Excellence in Bengaluru, as the countdown begins for the upcoming T20 World Cup scheduled to start on February 7. The assessment is expected to play a decisive role in determining Sundar’s availability for the tournament.
Sundar has been out of action since sustaining a side strain during a match on January 11. The injury required an extended rehabilitation period, raising concerns about his readiness ahead of the global event. While the medical team has been closely monitoring his recovery, selectors have been cautious about making final decisions until the fitness test provides a clear picture.
According to sources familiar with the matter, the national selection committee has temporarily put contingency plans on hold. Sundar is viewed as a valuable option due to his ability to contribute with both bat and ball, particularly in the shortest format. His skills as a spin bowling all rounder, combined with his experience in pressure situations, make him a strong candidate for the squad if fully fit.
The upcoming fitness test will assess Sundar’s bowling workload tolerance, overall movement, and recovery response. Team management is keen to ensure that any returning player is match ready and not at risk of aggravating an existing injury, especially during a high intensity tournament like the T20 World Cup.
Sundar has faced multiple injury setbacks over the past few years, which have interrupted his international career despite strong performances when fit. These recurring issues have led selectors to adopt a cautious approach, prioritising long term fitness over rushed returns. The current assessment is part of a broader strategy to manage player workload and avoid late tournament withdrawals.
The Indian team management has been working closely with the BCCI medical staff at the Centre of Excellence, which was established to provide specialised rehabilitation and performance monitoring for elite athletes. The facility plays a key role in fitness clearances for national selection.
If Sundar is declared fit, he is expected to rejoin full training sessions shortly, giving him limited but crucial preparation time before the tournament. However, if the test indicates incomplete recovery, selectors may be forced to activate backup options, though no names have been officially confirmed.
With the T20 World Cup drawing near, the focus remains on assembling a balanced and fully fit squad. Washington Sundar’s fitness outcome is being closely watched, as it could influence team composition and strategy. An official update is expected following the completion of the fitness assessment in Bengaluru.
