As Team India grapples with a growing injury crisis, the situation has worsened with the absence of key players like Jasprit Bumrah and Sai Sudharsan.
This has created additional challenges for the management as they prepare for the second Test against Sri Lanka at the Sinhalese Sports Club in Colombo on Sunday, August 23.
The Indian squad, captained by Shubman Gill, is set to face Sri Lanka in the first match of the two-Test series at Galle International Stadium on August 15. They recently secured a six-wicket victory in a three-day practice match against Sri Lanka XI in Colombo, providing a boost ahead of their red-ball campaign in the island nation.
Squad Adjustments
In response to the injuries, Auqib Nabi and Sarfaraz Khan have been included in the Indian squad as replacements for Bumrah and Sudharsan, with selectors aiming to strengthen the team before the critical Test series begins.
Washington Sundar’s Fitness Uncertainty
As preparations for the opening Test against Sri Lanka continue, concerns have emerged regarding Washington Sundar’s fitness following a hamstring injury sustained during the ODI series against England in July.
Currently undergoing rehabilitation at the BCCI Centre of Excellence in Bengaluru, Sundar’s recovery is being closely monitored. However, reports indicate that his chances of participating in the second Test are diminishing, with sources suggesting that the likelihood of him traveling to Sri Lanka is ‘very slim.’
“At this moment, the chances of Washington going to Sri Lanka are very slim. The team management has been advised to plan accordingly. The BCCI medical team is cautious about rushing him back into a Test match,” a source from the BCCI stated.
Cautious Approach to Recovery
Washington Sundar’s international career has faced numerous challenges due to injuries, which have hindered his ability to secure a consistent place in the team. Despite having established himself in the Test squad under favorable conditions, ongoing fitness issues continue to disrupt his progress.
The BCCI source further elaborated on Sundar’s recovery, stating that he is being managed with utmost care. The decision regarding his participation in the second Test will be made after a comprehensive evaluation next week.
“Washington was selected only for the second Test, knowing that achieving full fitness would be a challenge. He hasn’t played much since his injury in England last month, and his workload is being gradually increased,” the source explained.
“If he joins the team, he will be the 16th member. It needs to be determined whether sending him for a Test match without any prior game time is beneficial. A thorough assessment will take place next week, considering the team’s situation in Sri Lanka,” the source added.
No Replacement Planned
In the event that Washington Sundar is officially ruled out of the second Test in Colombo, the team management has indicated that they will not seek a replacement.