T20 World Cup: 'Don't want to rush with replacements' - Suryakumar Yadav backs wait-and-watch approach on Washington Sundar fitness

India captain Suryakumar Yadav said the team is not in a hurry to name a replacement for all-rounder Washington Sundar ahead of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 opener against the USA.

Sundar reported discomfort in his lower rib area while bowling during the first ODI against New Zealand at the BCA Stadium in Vadodara on January 11. Scans and an in-person consultation with an expert confirmed a side strain, and he was advised rest for a few days. Sundar, who is part of India’s T20 World Cup squad, also missed the five-match T20I series against New Zealand.




"We will be patient with Washington, don't want to rush with replacements," Suryakumar said at the Captain’s Day press conference ahead of the tournament.

Suryakumar also spoke about head coach Gautam Gambhir and credited him for the atmosphere in the team, saying the players have been given freedom to play their natural game.

"It's been wonderful ever since he took over," Suryakumar said about Gambhir. "He keeps his personal milestones aside. We played in Trivandrum, and Ishan Kishan got to 100 with a six. We have given our players the freedom."

The India captain said the current approach has helped the team play with confidence. He added that while India’s recent performances have been encouraging, the competition remains open.

"I think the way we have been playing, it looks like we are the favourites," he said. “But there are 19 other teams as well.”

Suryakumar also spoke about his own form ahead of the tournament. "Happy to be back in form," he said.

India are the defending champions and have been placed in Group A along with Namibia, the Netherlands, the USA, and Pakistan.

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