T20 World Cup 2026 India injury report: The medical staff at the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI)’s Centre of Excellence (CoE) in Bengaluru is working overtime as the Indian cricket team’s injury list continues to grow ahead of the T20 World Cup 2026, starting February 7.
During the 1st T20I of the five-match series against New Zealand in Nagpur, India’s preparations for the marquee opener have aced yet another hit.
Axar Patel injury update: The latest blow
The biggest concern today remains India’s T20I vice-captain Axar Patel. During the series opener against New Zealand, Axar sustained a nasty blow to his bowling finger while attempting a catch off Daryl Mitchell. The all-rounder was seen bleeding and did not return to the field. He is likely to be rested for the 2nd T20I in Raipur to prevent further damage before the World Cup. However, recent reports and reactions suggest that he should be fine for the remainder of the series.
Tilak Varma recovery status: A boost for the middle order
There is finally some positive news regarding Tilak Varma. After undergoing emergency surgery for testicular torsion earlier this month, the left-hander has officially resumed physical training at the CoE.
While he remains unavailable for the first three T20Is against New Zealand, reports suggest he is on track to be match-fit before the fourth T20I on January 28, keeping his World Cup hopes alive.
Washington Sundar fitness news: Strategy disruptor
The status of Washington Sundar remains the most uncertain. Currently sidelined with a severe side strain sustained during the ODI series, Sundar is undergoing evaluation at the CoE.
The medical team is expected to provide a final report by next week. If the spin-bowling all-rounder fails to recover, Ravi Bishnoi is the primary candidate to board the bus to the USA and West Indies.
India vs New Zealand T20I series: India’s last chance to fine tune their preparation before T20 World Cup
As far as the India-New Zealand T20I series is concerned, the Men in Blue are 1-0 ahead in the three-match series. They comfortably beat Kiwis by 48 runs in the series opener. However, with the growing list of injuries and runs continuing to desert captain Suryakumar, the team management will have its share of concerns with their T20 World Cup title defence beginning soon.