New Delhi: Indian all-rounder Washington Sundar could miss out on selection for the Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 due to the continued poor form of senior batters Suryakumar Yadav and Shubman Gill, according to a report. The selection dilemma has reportedly forced the Indian team management to prioritise additional batting cover over all-round options as they finalise the 15-member squad for the global event.

As per a report by The Indian Express, the national selectors are currently torn between Washington Sundar and middle-order batter Rinku Singh, with most slots in the World Cup squad already locked in. The report suggests that the underwhelming form of both Suryakumar Yadav and Shubman Gill has prompted the selectors to consider strengthening the batting depth, which could work against Washington’s chances.

Selection dilemma between Washington and Rinku

Washington Sundar was recently included in the squad for the T20I series against South Africa, primarily because of his ability to contribute with both bat and ball. His off-spin bowling, coupled with useful lower-order batting, has often been seen as an asset in T20 cricket.

However, the report indicates that this balance may not be enough to secure him a place in the T20 World Cup squad. With concerns growing over the reliability of the top and middle order, selectors are reportedly considering Rinku Singh as a more specialist batting option.

Rinku’s inclusion would give India an additional batter who can step in if either Suryakumar or Gill fails to deliver. In such a scenario, the team management is said to be contemplating a combination of three specialist spinners and an extra batter, instead of opting for an all-rounder like Washington.

Impact of Suryakumar and Gill’s form

Suryakumar Yadav, India’s T20 captain, and his deputy Shubman Gill have both endured an extended lean patch. Suryakumar, in particular, has struggled for consistency over the past year, enduring a barren run spanning nearly 14 months and around 24 matches across formats.

Despite this, Suryakumar is believed to be holding on to his place largely due to his leadership role. The report notes that the upcoming T20 World Cup, to be played in India and Sri Lanka, could potentially be his last global T20 event as captain, given that he is already 35 years old.

Gill’s position has also repeatedly come under scrutiny. Though regarded as one of India’s most talented batters, his inconsistency in the T20 format has opened the door for others. An in-form Yashasvi Jaiswal is said to be waiting in the wings, and selectors are closely monitoring their options.

Gambhir factor could still favour Washington

Despite the uncertainty, Washington Sundar is not entirely out of contention. Head coach Gautam Gambhir is known to favour players who can fulfil multiple roles, especially in ICC tournaments where squad flexibility is crucial.

Washington’s ability to bowl in the powerplay, control the middle overs and contribute with the bat could still tilt the scales in his favour. The report notes that his chances may improve if the selectors decide that Hardik Pandya and Jitesh Sharma are sufficient to cover the finisher’s role, potentially reducing the need for a specialist batter like Rinku Singh.

Squad flexibility before tournament begins

The BCCI has the option to make changes to the final squad until the start of the T20 World Cup on February 7, 2026. This flexibility allows selectors to adapt based on form, fitness and conditions closer to the tournament.

A precedent for such a move exists. During the Champions Trophy earlier this year, Varun Chakravarthy replaced Yashasvi Jaiswal after slow pitches in Dubai were taken into account. A similar tactical call could be made ahead of the T20 World Cup if conditions or team requirements change.

New Zealand series to mirror World Cup squad

The selection committee is also expected to announce India’s squad for the upcoming five-match T20I series against New Zealand, which is likely to mirror the World Cup squad. This series could serve as a final audition for fringe players and provide clarity on the preferred combinations.

At present, there appear to be no open slots, but Gill’s place remains under constant evaluation. The selectors may consider naming Yashasvi Jaiswal as an additional player for the New Zealand series to assess his readiness as a backup option for the mega event.

Conclusion

With the T20 World Cup 2026 fast approaching, India’s selectors face tough calls as they attempt to balance form, experience and squad flexibility. The poor run of senior batters Suryakumar Yadav and Shubman Gill has complicated selection equations, potentially putting Washington Sundar’s place at risk. Whether the team opts for an extra batter or sticks with an all-round option will depend on how the management weighs immediate batting concerns against long-term balance, making the final squad announcement one to watch closely.