Washington Sundar Exits India vs New Zealand ODI Series Due to Injury

Washington Sundar has been ruled out of the ongoing ODI series against New Zealand due to a side strain. This injury follows Rishabh Pant's exit from the series, adding to Team India's challenges. Despite his injury, Sundar reflected positively on India's recent victory, highlighting the crucial role played by KL Rahul. As the team navigates these setbacks, fans are eager to see how they will adapt in the remaining matches. Read on for more details about Sundar's injury and its impact on the series.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jan 12, 2026, 13:42 IST

Washington Sundar's Injury Update

Washington Sundar, the bowling all-rounder for India, has been sidelined from the ongoing ODI series against New Zealand due to an injury, according to reports. He participated in the first match of the three-game series held on Sunday.

During the match, Sundar bowled five overs, conceding 25 runs without taking any wickets. Unfortunately, he had to leave the field midway through New Zealand's innings and did not return. However, he did come back to bat at the No. 8 position, scoring seven runs in India's four-wicket victory.

Team India Faces Another Setback

After the match, Indian captain Shubman Gill announced that Sundar had sustained a side strain and would undergo scans. This injury adds to the challenges faced by Team India, as Rishabh Pant was also ruled out of the series due to a similar side strain incurred during practice. Dhruv Jurel stepped in to replace Pant in the playing XI for the first ODI.

Sundar Reflects on the Team's Victory

In a video shared by the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) on Monday, Washington Sundar expressed his joy over the team's win, attributing his success to his younger self who dreamed of contributing to such victories. He commended KL Rahul's performance and emphasized his role in managing the final overs to keep Rahul on strike.

With 10 runs required from the last 10 balls, Sundar strategically passed the strike to Rahul on the third ball of the penultimate over. Rahul then hit two consecutive boundaries followed by a six, leading India to victory. Sundar remarked, "It was fun. I owe this to little Washi, who has watched so many games like these on TV and told himself that you do anything to win the game for your team. KL batted beautifully, and knowing he was there, I knew I didn't have to take too much risk; I just had to play the 48th and 49th over and make sure it's him who is batting for the last 10 balls in the game."