Gautam Gambhir Washington Sundar for India. Image Credits: AFP
Washington Sundar's chances of playing in India's second Test against Sri Lanka have suffered a major setback. The all-rounder is recovering from a hamstring injury and is unlikely to be rushed back into the squad for the IND vs SL 2nd Test.
The second Test is scheduled to begin at the SSC in Colombo on August 23.
It is important to mention that Sundar suffered the injury during the second ODI against England in Cardiff. He missed the third ODI and returned to India, where he began his rehabilitation at the BCCI’s Centre of Excellence (CoE).
Washington Sundar's Fitness Race Continues Ahead of IND vs SL 2nd Test
When the BCCI announced India's 15-member squad for the two-Test series on July 28, Sundar was not included. However, the board clarified that he was 'not available for selection for the first Test.'
"Washington Sundar was not available for selection for the first Test", the BCCI stated.
This left the door open for Sundar to join the team for the second match if he recovered in time. However, the latest update suggests there is a lower chance he might play the IND vs SL 2nd Test.
According to The Times of India, the BCCI medical team and Indian team management are expected to take a cautious approach.
India have already dealt with several injury concerns, and the management does not want Sundar to suffer another setback.
“At this moment, the chances of Washington going to Sri Lanka are very slim. The team management has been told to plan accordingly. The BCCI medical team is wary of pushing him into a Test," a source said while speaking to The Times of India.
“There have been a few instances where players have broken down after recovering from an injury. Washington was picked only for the second Test, knowing it would be touch-and-go for him to gain full fitness," the source added.
Will Washington Sundar Play IND vs SL 2nd Test?
The Indian team management under Gautam Gambhir has reportedly been asked to make plans without depending on the all-rounder Washington Sundar.
The main concern related to Sundar is whether he will be match-fit for the second Test. Even if he completes his rehabilitation successfully, he may not have enough game time before the second Test.
A final assessment of Washington Sundar’s fitness is expected next week. The medical team will look at his recovery as well as India’s situation in Sri Lanka before making a decision.
“Washington will be the 16th member if he links up with the team. It needs to be assessed if it will be worthwhile to send him for a Test without any game time. A thorough assessment will be done next week, which will include how the team is placed in Sri Lanka," the source said.
In the the same report, it is mentioned that the team management will not name Sundar’s replacement for the IND vs SL 2nd Test.
For now, India is preparing for the first Test in Galle, starting August 15.
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