As the Indian cricket team prepares for the second Test against Sri Lanka, significant concerns have arisen regarding the availability of all-rounder Washington Sundar. Following the unfortunate injuries to key players Jasprit Bumrah and Sai Sudharsan, Sundar's participation is now in serious doubt, with sources indicating that the likelihood of him joining the squad is 'very slim.'
Washington Sundar was initially selected only for the second Test, as he is still recovering from a hamstring injury sustained during the recent tour of England. The Indian selectors had hoped that Sundar would regain full fitness in time for the match, but the current situation has prompted a reevaluation of his readiness. According to a source from the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), the team management is taking a cautious approach, especially given the recent spate of injuries affecting the squad.
"At this moment, the chances of Washington going to Sri Lanka are very slim. The team management has been advised to plan accordingly," the BCCI source stated. The medical team is particularly wary of rushing Sundar back into action, citing previous instances where players have suffered setbacks shortly after returning from injuries.
Despite being named in the 15-member squad, Sundar was considered the 16th member, contingent on his fitness. The selectors are unlikely to name a replacement should he be officially ruled out, as they have already finalized the squad. The decision on Sundar's participation will be made after a thorough assessment next week, taking into account the team's situation in Sri Lanka and his current fitness level.
In addition to Sundar's injury concerns, there is still no definitive timeline for the return of pacers Jasprit Bumrah and Akash Deep. Bumrah is currently dealing with a knee injury sustained during the England tour, while Akash Deep has been sidelined since January due to a stress fracture in his back. The Centre of Excellence (CoE) has been working on Bumrah's rehabilitation, but there are concerns about his readiness for the longer formats of the game.
"The CoE was focused on gradually increasing Bumrah's workload before the Test series in Sri Lanka, but it has become clear that he will not be ready in time. It has been a long time since he has bowled in longer formats, and the CoE is being very careful with his recovery," the source explained. The absence of Bumrah, a pivotal player in the Indian bowling lineup, raises questions about the team's strategy moving forward, particularly with an eye on the future.
As for Akash Deep, the CoE had aimed to have him fit for the Sri Lanka tour, but that goal has not been met. The team management has yet to receive any updates regarding his recovery timeline. There is hope that both Bumrah and Akash Deep will be available for the upcoming tour of New Zealand, which is expected to be crucial for the Indian side as they look to strengthen their squad in the longer formats.
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