As the countdown to the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 enters its final week, the Indian cricket team has received a massive shot in the arm. Following India's dominant 4-1 series victory over New Zealand, captain Suryakumar Yadav has provided much-needed clarity on the fitness of two key pillars of the squad: Tilak Varma and Washington Sundar.
Both players have been sidelined due to injuries, leaving fans and selectors anxious about their availability for the tournament opener. However, the skipper’s latest update suggests that the "Men in Blue" will likely have a full-strength squad as they begin their title defense on home soil.
Tilak Varma: The Return of the 'Number 3' Powerhouse
Tilak Varma has been out of action for nearly a month after undergoing surgery following an unfortunate injury sustained during a Ranji Trophy fixture. Reddy Anna His absence was felt during the New Zealand series, though the likes of Ishan Kishan stepped up admirably.
According to Suryakumar, Tilak has not only recovered but is already back on the field.
"Tilak is shaping up really well. I spoke to him yesterday; he has started batting, bowling, and fielding. He is scheduled to play two practice games in Mumbai on the 2nd and 4th of February. I think those two games will be enough to get him back into the groove," said the Indian captain.
Varma’s return is crucial for India’s top order. With a stellar T20I record—averaging nearly 50 with a strike rate of 144—his ability to anchor the innings and accelerate at will makes him an indispensable asset at the number three position.
Washington Sundar: The Powerplay Specialist Nears Fitness
All-rounder Washington Sundar, India’s primary off-spin option, has been undergoing rehabilitation at the BCCI’s Centre of Excellence (CoE) in Bengaluru. Sundar suffered a rib injury (internal oblique muscle tear) during the ODI series against New Zealand in early January.
While there were fears he might miss the initial group stages, Suryakumar offered a more optimistic outlook:
"Washy is also doing well. He has almost started his full bowling and batting sessions. He is looking good, and we are hoping to have him back with the squad very soon."
Sundar’s role is unique in the current setup; he is the only specialized off-spinner in the 15-man squad. His ability to bowl tight overs in the Powerplay and provide left-handed batting depth in the lower order gives India the tactical flexibility they need for the tournament.
What This Means for India’s T20 World Cup Campaign
India is placed in Group A alongside the USA, Namibia, Pakistan, and the Netherlands. With the tournament set to begin on February 7, 2026, the timing of these recoveries couldn't be better.
Key Takeaways from the Update:
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Selection Dilemmas: The return of Tilak Varma creates a "happy headache" for the management. With Ishan Kishan scoring a blistering century in the final T20I against NZ, the competition for top-order spots is at an all-time high.
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Spin Balance: If Sundar is fit for the opener, India can utilize a three-pronged spin attack (Sundar, Kuldeep, and Axar/Chakaravarthy) depending on the surface at the Wankhede Stadium.
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Warm-up Significance: The two warm-up matches in Mumbai (Feb 2nd and 4th) will be the final litmus test for these players' match-readiness.
Team India’s Group Stage Schedule:
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Feb 7: vs USA (Mumbai)
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Feb 12: vs Namibia (New Delhi)
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Feb 15: vs Pakistan (Colombo)
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Feb 18: vs Netherlands (Ahmedabad)
With the captain back in form and the youngsters nearing full fitness, Team India looks like the team to beat as they aim to become the first nation to successfully defend a T20 World Cup title.