Indian all-rounder Washington Sundar has been officially ruled out of the five-match T20 International series against New Zealand, which is scheduled to commence on January 21, 2026. This setback follows a rib injury, specifically described as an acute onset of discomfort in his left lower rib area, that Sundar sustained while bowling during the first One-Day International (ODI) against New Zealand in Vadodara on January 12, 2026. Prior to his exclusion from the T20I squad, Sundar had already been withdrawn from the remaining matches of the ODI series against New Zealand due to the same injury. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) advised him two weeks of rest after scans confirmed the side strain. This dual exclusion clarifies the "as well" in the original article's headline, indicating his removal from the T20I series followed his withdrawal from the ODIs. In response to Sundar's injury in the ODI squad, Ayush Badoni was named as his replacement for the second ODI onwards. This development is a significant concern for Team India, particularly with the ICC T20 World Cup 2026 looming, set to begin on February 7. Sundar's availability for the prestigious tournament is now under a cloud, and his recovery timeline will be closely monitored. Further complicating India's preparations, Tilak Varma has also been ruled out of the first three T20Is against New Zealand due to a groin injury requiring surgery. Multiple credible sources, including The Indian Express, ANI News, Sports Today, and Times of India, have corroborated these reports, confirming Sundar's injury and subsequent withdrawal from both series.