Indian all-rounder Washington Sundar has been officially ruled out of the upcoming five-match T20 International series against New Zealand, which is scheduled to commence on January 21, 2026. The left-arm spinner and batter sustained a side strain, described as acute discomfort in his left lower rib area, while bowling during the first One-Day International against New Zealand in Vadodara on January 11. Following the injury, Sundar was initially sidelined from the remaining ODI matches against New Zealand. Subsequent medical assessments and advice have confirmed that he will not recover in time for the T20I series. This setback casts a significant shadow over his participation in the ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2026, co-hosted by India and Sri Lanka, which is set to begin on February 7. Multiple credible sources, including The Tribune, Hindustan Times, and The Indian Express, have corroborated this news, often citing BCCI officials or PTI reports. The team management is reportedly cautious and does not wish to risk Sundar exacerbating his injury, especially with the World Cup around the corner. He is expected to report to the BCCI's Centre of Excellence (CoE) in Bengaluru for recovery and further assessment. This injury adds to India's concerns ahead of the major tournament, as another squad member, Tilak Varma, is also set to miss the first three T20Is against New Zealand after undergoing surgery for a groin injury. While India possesses a strong pool of all-rounders, the absence of key players like Sundar and Varma presents selection challenges as the team finalizes its preparations for the T20 World Cup.