Indian all-rounder Washington Sundar is currently in a critical race against time to be declared fit for the ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2026, co-hosted by India and Sri Lanka from February 7 to March 8. Sundar recently sustained a side strain during the first One Day International against New Zealand in Vadodara, which led to his immediate withdrawal from the remainder of the ODI series. Medical assessments confirmed the injury, and he has subsequently been ruled out of the entire five-match T20 International series against New Zealand, which is currently underway and serves as a crucial preparation for the World Cup. The injury has cast a significant shadow over Sundar's participation in the marquee global event, for which he has already been named in India's provisional 15-member squad. Reports indicate that the all-rounder has been advised at least two weeks of rest to recover. The Indian team management is reportedly not willing to risk him in the bilateral series, prioritizing his complete recovery for the World Cup, which is less than a month away. Meanwhile, Delhi's Ayush Badoni has received his maiden India call-up as Sundar's replacement in the ODI squad. The deadline for making changes to the preliminary World Cup squads is January 31, adding to the urgency of Sundar's recovery. India are the defending champions of the T20 World Cup, having won the 2024 edition.