Washington Sundar could miss the entire two-match Test series against Sri Lanka, according to recent reports. The all-rounder was initially selected only for the second Test after being ruled out of the opening game due to a hamstring injury suffered during the England ODI series.
Sundar was expected to recover in time for the second match, but a latest report from The Times of India has raised doubts over his availability for both Tests. His absence could force the Indian selectors to make another change to the squad.
India have several spin-bowling options who can also contribute with the bat. However, replacing Sundar will require careful consideration, as his ability to bowl useful spells while adding depth to the lower order makes him a valuable part of the Test setup.
With Ravindra Jadeja already providing experience as a spin-bowling all-rounder, India could explore different options depending on the conditions in Sri Lanka.
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3 players India could pick in place of Washington Sundar
3. Washington Sundar: Axar Patel Test series
Axar Patel could be one of the strongest options to replace Washington Sundar if the all-rounder is ruled out of the Sri Lanka Test series. The left-arm spinner has established himself as a reliable member of India’s international setup and can also contribute valuable runs in the lower middle order.
Axar’s ability to bowl economically and create pressure with his variations makes him particularly useful on spin-friendly Test pitches. His batting adds further depth to the team, giving India another player capable of making a significant contribution with the bat.
He has also produced impressive performances in international cricket. During India’s ODI series against England, Axar scored 57 runs and claimed four wickets for 62 runs in the opening match, earning the Player of the Match award. His experience in Test cricket and all-round abilities make him a natural candidate to fill Sundar’s role.
This news update is based on reports from {espncricinfo}.
2. Washington Sundar: Tanush Kotian Test series
Tanush Kotian could be one of the leading contenders to replace Washington Sundar if the all-rounder is ruled out of the Sri Lanka Test series. The Mumbai all-rounder has established himself as a reliable performer in domestic cricket and offers value with both bat and ball.
Kotian was named Player of the Tournament during Mumbai’s successful 2023-24 Ranji Trophy campaign. He made a significant contribution with the bat, scoring 502 runs at an impressive average of 41.83. With the ball, he claimed 29 wickets at an average of 16.96.
He was the only player in that Ranji Trophy edition to achieve the impressive feat of scoring more than 500 runs and taking at least 25 wickets. His consistent domestic performances have kept him in contention for higher honours.
Kotian has also travelled with the Indian team as a net bowler, giving him familiarity with the setup. If Sundar is unavailable, he could be drafted into the Test squad.
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1. Washington Sundar: Harsh Dubey Test series
Harsh Dubey enjoyed a remarkable 2024-25 Ranji Trophy season with Vidarbha, playing a key role in their title-winning campaign. The left-arm spinner finished the tournament with an impressive 69 wickets and also contributed 476 runs with the bat.
His bowling figures were particularly outstanding, as Dubey broke the record for the most wickets by a bowler in a single Ranji Trophy season. His all-round contributions earned him the Player of the Tournament award and further strengthened his reputation as one of India’s promising domestic cricketers.
Dubey has already received recognition at the international level after being included in India’s squad for the Afghanistan series, although he did not feature in the playing XI.
With Washington Sundar potentially unavailable, Dubey could now be considered for a place in the Test squad for Sri Lanka. The series could also provide him with an opportunity to make his long-awaited international debut.