India is facing further injury concerns ahead of their Test series in Sri Lanka, with all-rounder Washington Sundar now doubtful for the tour. This potential setback follows injuries to Jasprit Bumrah and Sai Sudharsan, adding to the team’s challenges as they aim to maintain an unbeaten record in Test series in Sri Lanka.
Sundar, who was initially selected only for the second Test of the tour, sustained a hamstring injury during the second ODI in Cardiff. He has since been undergoing rehabilitation at the Centre of Excellence (CoE). Reports indicate that the CoE and the Indian team management are adopting a cautious approach regarding his recovery, especially given the recent spate of injuries affecting the squad.
Sundar’s Availability Uncertain
Sources suggest that Sundar’s chances of traveling to Sri Lanka are currently very slim. The team management has reportedly been advised to make alternative plans. The BCCI medical team is hesitant to rush him back into a Test match, citing previous instances where players experienced further breakdowns shortly after recovering from injuries.
One source mentioned that Sundar was picked for the second Test with the understanding that his fitness would be a close call. He has not played much since sustaining the injury in England last month, and his workload is being carefully managed. A thorough assessment is expected to take place next week, which will also consider the team’s situation in Sri Lanka.
If Sundar is ultimately ruled out, it is unlikely that the selectors will name a replacement. He could potentially remain as the 16th member of the squad if he regains sufficient fitness to join the team. However, the management will first evaluate whether it is practical to send him to Sri Lanka without any recent match practice.
The 26-year-old all-rounder from Tamil Nadu and Gujarat Titans has played in 18 Tests, securing 41 wickets at an average of 30.34. With the bat, he has accumulated 937 runs at an average of 44.61, including one century and six half-centuries.
Broader Injury Woes for India
Sundar’s uncertain status exacerbates India’s growing list of injury concerns. Jasprit Bumrah has already been ruled out of the Sri Lanka Test series due to a knee injury sustained during the ODI series in England. The CoE had been working on increasing Bumrah’s workload in preparation for the tour, but he was not deemed ready in time. There is currently no specific timeline for his return to longer-format cricket.
Another significant concern is pacer Akash Deep. The Bengal bowler has been sidelined since January after suffering a stress fracture in his back. The CoE’s initial goal was to have him fit for the Sri Lanka tour, but this has not materialized. No clear timeline for his return has been communicated to either the team management or the selection committee. The team management is hopeful that both Bumrah and Akash Deep will be available for the crucial two-Test tour of New Zealand, which is scheduled for October.
These injuries present a considerable challenge for Shubman Gill’s Team India as they prepare to face Sri Lanka in the first of two Tests at Galle, starting on Saturday. The team will be looking to maintain their 18-year unbeaten record in Test series in Sri Lanka despite missing several key players.
The second Test is scheduled to begin on August 23 at the Sinhalese Sports Club (SSC) ground in Colombo.
Source: hindustantimes.com
