Washington Sundar has been ruled out of the upcoming T20I series against New Zealand and is also a doubtful starter for the 2026 T20 World Cup beginning next month.

The all-rounder sustained a side strain during the first ODI of the ongoing white-ball series against New Zealand. He walked off the field after bowling just five overs but later returned to bat, scoring an unbeaten 7 off 7 balls in India's four-wicket win in Vadodara.

Following the match, Washington was ruled out of the remainder of the three-match series, with the BCCI stating that he had "reported an acute onset of discomfort in his left lower rib area while bowling." Subsequent scans have now prompted the board to ask him to report to the Centre of Excellence (CoE) in Bengaluru for further assessment and rehabilitation.

Cricbuzz understands that Washington's participation in the upcoming home T20 World Cup is also under a cloud, with the all-rounder unlikely to achieve full recovery before the tournament begins on February 7. Defending champions India will open the 20-team tournament against the USA in Mumbai on the opening day.

Washington was replaced by Ayush Badoni in the ODI squad, but his replacement in the T20I side is expected in due course. India are due to play five T20Is against New Zealand in the lead-up to their title defence.