It seems difficult for Sundar to play in the T20 World Cup.Image Credit source: PTI

When the T20 World Cup 2026 starts in India and Sri Lanka from 7th February, Team India will go to defend its title. This time too, Team India is being considered the biggest contender for the trophy. One reason for Team India's claim is its strong squad, which seems to be settled for the last several months. This was the reason why BCCI had announced it about one and a half months ago. But Washington Sundar's injury has created problems and the question has arisen that if he is not fit for the World Cup, then who will replace him?

In the very first match of the ODI series against New Zealand team india All-rounder Washington Sundar was injured. He had to return to the dressing room due to side strain (injury near the stomach) during bowling. Till that time he had bowled only 5 overs. But due to this injury, first he was out of the ODI series and then he was also out of the T20 series. It is believed that he will not be fit for the initial matches of the World Cup. In such a situation, which player will be selected in his place is a question and at least 3 contenders are in front of the team for this.

Riyan Parag

At present, Riyan Parag seems to be the most suitable candidate to replace Sundar. The reason for this is the role of both. Like Sundar, Ryan is also a spin-allrounder. But the most important thing is that like Sundar, he is also an off break bowler. Apart from bowling, Ryan's strongest side is his better batting and amazing fielding. In this matter, not only Sundar, but he is ahead of all the other contenders. However, Ryan is also recovering from a shoulder injury and it is believed that he will be fit by the time the series against New Zealand starts. If this happens then his claim is the strongest.

Shahbaz Ahmed

This left-arm spin all-rounder was recently called by Team India but he did not get a chance. However, Shahbaz Ahmed made his debut for Team India in ODI and T20 matches in 2022 and 2023. However, he did not return since then. But recently in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy and then the Vijay Hazare Trophy, this Bengal all-rounder has strengthened his claim by performing very effectively with the ball as well as the bat.

Ayush Badoni

As soon as Sundar was out of the ODI series, the selectors first included Delhi captain Ayush Badoni in the team. This was the first time when this all-rounder got a call from Team India. He is also an off-spinner like Sundar and Parag and can bat explosively in the middle order or as a finisher. His ability has been visible in IPL and domestic cricket. In such a situation, it will not be a surprise if he is selected.

Nitish Kumar Reddy

Although Nitish Kumar Reddy is a medium pacer-all-rounder, he has been a part of the team continuously for some time. However, questions have been raised regarding their proper use and even their performance has come under question. But still his talent and knowledge of Indian conditions can go in his favor. At present his chances of selection are less.

Krunal Pandya

Ever since Hardik Pandya's elder brother Krunal Pandya was out of Team India, he has not been able to return. Left-arm spinner-all-rounder Krunal, who has played 19 T20 and 5 ODI matches for Team India, is out of action since 2021. But in recent times, his performance in domestic cricket and IPL has been commendable. While captaining Baroda, he performed brilliantly for the team in the Mushtaq Ali Trophy. In such a situation, if the team focuses on selection for just one tournament, then Krunal can prove to be a good option. At the same time, if the team management is looking at any selection according to future needs, then there will be no place for Krunal.