India’s build-up to the ICC T20 World Cup 2026 has been affected by injury concerns, with all-rounder Washington Sundar in major doubt for the tournament. As the World Cup is just weeks away, the Indian team management is being forced to consider contingency plans, with Riyan Parag and Ravi Bishnoi expected to fill the potential void.

The T20 World Cup, scheduled to be held across India and Sri Lanka from February 7, has left little room for doubt. India has just one warm-up match lined up on February 4 in Mumbai. While Tilak Varma’s recovery is progressing well, Sundar’s situation is more complicated. The Tamil Nadu all-rounder suffered a side strain during the first ODI against New Zealand in Vadodara and was ruled out of the remainder of the ODI and T20I series. 

Sundar’s injury is reportedly more serious than first anticipated. He bowled only five overs before being sidelined, and the BCCI medical team has advised extended rest, reportedly needing at least two more weeks for full recovery. With India’s opening World Cup match scheduled for February 7, Sundar is now racing against time to regain full fitness. While he has not always been a guaranteed starter in India’s T20I XI, his ability to bowl in the powerplay and contribute as a floater with the bat adds balance to the squad. 

Riyan Parag to feature in two simulation games to assess match fitness

With Sundar’s availability uncertain, Riyan Parag has been seen as the leading replacement option. The Rajasthan Royals all-rounder is nearing the end of his rehabilitation from a shoulder injury at the BCCI’s Centre of Excellence.

Parag has cleared his Yo-Yo Test and is set to feature in two simulation matches to assess match fitness. Despite decent scores in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy, where he did not bowl, Parag’s ability as a batting all-rounder who can bowl spin makes him a solid pick. Meanwhile, Ravi Bishnoi has strengthened his case through performance. Called into the squad in Sundar’s absence, the leg-spinner looked in good touch in the third T20I against New Zealand with figures of 2/18.