India captain Shubman Gill offered a key update on Washington Sundar’s injury following the hosts’ four-wicket victory over New Zealand in the first ODI at the Baroda Cricket Association Stadium in Kotambi, Vadodara, on Sunday.
Speaking after the match, Gill confirmed that Sundar has sustained a side strain and will undergo scans to assess the extent of the injury. While the 26-year-old skipper did not go into further detail, a side strain typically requires adequate recovery time, making Sundar’s availability for the remainder of the series highly doubtful.
Sundar bowled five overs in the New Zealand innings, conceding 27 runs, before being forced off the field midway through the innings. Television cameras later showed him walking back to the dressing room, and he did not return to the field thereafter.
Despite the discomfort, Sundar showed grit and determination by coming out to bat at No. 8 during India’s chase. He played a valuable supporting role alongside KL Rahul, helping steer India home with six balls to spare.
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At the post-match presentation, Gill addressed the injury update when asked by Harsha Bhogle, saying, “Washington Sundar has a side strain and will go for a scan after the match.”
With the bat, Sundar remained unbeaten on seven runs, contributing to a crucial 27-run stand off 16 balls for the eighth wicket with Rahul, who finished not out on 29. India successfully chased down the target of 301, ending on 306 for six in 49 overs.
Following the win, Rahul admitted he was unaware of the severity of Sundar’s injury during their partnership. The wicketkeeper-batter expressed relief that they were able to finish the game without further complications.
“I didn’t know he couldn’t run. I knew he had some discomfort in the first innings, but wasn’t aware of the extent. He was striking the ball really well,” Rahul told the host broadcaster.
“When he came in, we were already scoring at about a run-a-ball, so there was no need to take risks. There wasn’t much pressure on him. He rotated the strike and did his job,” he added.
