Riyan Parag on Standby as Washington Sundar’s T20 World Cup 2026 Availability Remains Uncertain

The BCCI has told the Centre of Excellence (CoE) in Bengaluru to keep Riyan Parag ready to play, because Washington Sundar’s availability for the early matches of the T20 World Cup 2026 is not certain. 

With Sundar’s recovery from a side strain taking longer than expected, the selectors are preparing for a scenario where he may not be available for the opening matches of the tournament. Sundar suffered the injury during the first ODI against New Zealand in Vadodara, when he felt discomfort in his left lower rib area while bowling.

He could bowl only five overs and was then ruled out of the rest of the ODI matches and the current T20I series. The doctors have told him to rest more, and reports say he may need about two more weeks to recover fully. This makes his chances of playing India’s World Cup opening match on February 7 in Mumbai very uncertain. With no official warm-up matches scheduled by the ICC (as of now), the Indian team is exploring the possibility of a practice game on February 4, either against South Africa or through an intra-squad fixture against India ‘A’. In that context, Parag has been identified as a like-for-like backup option and has been told to be ready if required as per the Times of India.

Riyan Parag on Standby as Washington Sundar’s World Cup Availability Remains Uncertain

He isn’t part of the second leg of the Ranji Trophy as well. His last competitive outing came on December 6. For the Rajasthan Royals (RR), Parag captained in a few games as well last season.

He made 393 runs at 166.53 SR in what was a disappointing campaign for the Royals. This time, RR are yet to announce their designated captain as well following the trade of Sanju Samson. Parag remains a prime candidate to lead in IPL 2026. Parag has resumed batting and bowling at full intensity in the nets and is not experiencing any pain.

He will play two practice matches on January 28 and January 30. After that, a final fitness check will be done on January 31. He has been told to stay ready to go to Mumbai when the Indian team meets on February 2. While he is not part of the current World Cup squad, the selectors see him as a flexible option if Sundar fails to recover in time.

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