As India fine-tune their plans ahead of a packed international calendar, injury updates around key players have suddenly taken center stage, bringing both optimism and concern for the Men in Blue. One of the biggest positives is the expected return of top-order batter Tilak Varma who is reportedly on track to regain full fitness ahead of the fifth and final T20I against New Zealand on Saturday, January 31, and more importantly, the T20 World Cup 2026.
Tilak Varma’s recovery is being handled with caution. While he is eager to get back into competitive action and has been training intensely at the Centre of Excellence in Bengaluru, the team management is prioritizing his long-term fitness over a hurried comeback. The focus remains on ensuring he is completely match-ready for the World Cup rather than risking aggravation during the New Zealand series.
The left-hander had undergone abdominal surgery during the Vijay Hazare Trophy, an injury that forced him out of the first three T20Is against New Zealand after doctors advised a two-week rest period. At that time, the BCCI made it clear that his return would depend entirely on how smoothly he progressed through rehabilitation, training and skill-based sessions.
Tilak Varma’s absence has opened the door for Sanju Samson and Ishan Kishan to stake their claim in the top order. With Tilak Varma also expected to miss at least the fourth T20I, both the batters have had extended opportunities. Ishan Kishan has impressed with his form, while Sanju Samson has struggled but continues to enjoy the backing of the team management. Given Tilak Varma’s strong performances before injury, including a match-winning knock in the Asia Cup, he is widely expected to walk straight back into the playing XI once cleared, likely replacing either Ishan Kishan or Sanju Samson.
Meanwhile, the Indian management also closely monitoring the fitness of all-rounder Washington Sundar who is racing against time to be available when T20 World Cup warm-up matches begin. Sundar picked up a rib injury during the first ODI in Vadodara, forcing him to miss the New Zealand T20Is and the final two ODIs. Despite the pain, he showed grit by returning to bat and contributing during a middle-order collapse alongside KL Rahul.
Medical advice suggests Sundar still needs additional rest to make a full recovery, leaving selectors with a tough decision. With the World Cup starting on February 7, India have kept leg-spinner Ravi Bishnoi in the squad as a backup option while final calls loom.
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