In a potential setback for India’s Test campaign, all-rounder Washington Sundar has encountered a finger injury just days before the opening match against West Indies in Ahmedabad.
The Tamil Nadu cricketer, who staged a remarkable return to the longest format during the recent series against New Zealand, has become a mainstay in the national side’s red-ball operations, contributing effectively both domestically and abroad. However, during Tuesday’s training session, Sundar abstained from fielding exercises, heightening worries within the camp as the team gears up for the two-Test series starting Thursday.
According to a report, Sundar sat out the catching practice owing to discomfort in his finger. Observers noted India captain Shubman Gill approaching him on the drinks trolley for a discussion about the issue’s severity. Shortly after, teammates Mohammed Siraj, Nitish Kumar Reddy, and Ravindra Jadeja gathered around to examine the affected area and gauge its impact.
Despite managing an extended bowling stint, Sundar reportedly felt unease and requested additional strapping from the BCCI medical team. His role looms large for the hosts, particularly on familiar pitches where his off-spin and lower-order batting could prove decisive. Should recovery prove elusive in time for the first Test, the selectors may turn to Axar Patel as a direct substitute.
This shift would reshape India’s spin attack to include Jadeja, Kuldeep Yadav, and Axar, maintaining a balanced trio of left-arm and wrist spinners. Sundar’s Test ledger stands at 13 appearances, with 32 wickets captured at an average of 28.46 and 752 runs amassed at 44.23—figures underscoring his dual-threat value.
The series represents a critical juncture for India, who aim to consolidate their World Test Championship standing against a West Indies outfit eager to upset the hosts. As preparations intensify, the fitness of key personnel like Sundar will dictate early momentum.
India’s squad for the West Indies Tests comprises: Shubman Gill (captain), Yashasvi Jaiswal, KL Rahul, Sai Sudharsan, Devdutt Padikkal, Dhruv Jurel (wicketkeeper), Ravindra Jadeja (vice-captain), Washington Sundar, Jasprit Bumrah, Axar Patel, Nitish Kumar Reddy, N Jagadeesan (wicketkeeper), Mohammed Siraj, Prasidh Krishna, and Kuldeep Yadav.
-
-
-
-
