Harsh Dubey has been added to India’s ODI squad as a replacement for the injured Washington Sundar ahead of the series-deciding third ODI against England at Lord’s. Sundar suffered an injury during the second ODI in Cardiff and has been ruled out of the remainder of the series. Dubey, who recently made his international debut against Afghanistan, has been picked as a like-for-like replacement.
Washington Sundar picked up a right hamstring injury during the second ODI at Sophia Gardens. The all-rounder scored just 2 runs from 5 balls before showing signs of discomfort. TV cameras spotted him receiving treatment on his right thigh during India’s innings. After getting out, Sundar walked off the field looking uncomfortable and did not bowl a single over as England went on to level the series thanks to Joe Root’s match-winning knock.
Washington Sundar Ruled Out of England Series
The BCCI confirmed Sundar’s injury in an official statement. “Washington sustained a right hamstring injury during the second ODI at Sophia Gardens, Cardiff, and has been ruled out of the remainder of the series. He will undergo scans and seek a specialist opinion for further management of his injury,” the board said.
Harsh Dubey’s inclusion is an interesting move by the selectors. The left-arm spin-bowling all-rounder, who represents Sunrisers Hyderabad in the IPL, impressed during his debut series against Afghanistan. He claimed four wickets in two matches, including a three-wicket haul on debut. Dubey also offers useful batting lower down the order, making him a valuable all-round option.
Team India Prioritise Spin-Bowling All-Rounders
The latest selection also suggests that the team management is continuing to look beyond Ravindra Jadeja in the ODI format. With Dubey joining Axar Patel as another spin-bowling all-rounder, India appear keen on having players who can contribute with both bat and ball. This strategy gives the team more flexibility while balancing the playing XI.
Dubey’s arrival could also put Kuldeep Yadav’s place under pressure for the Lord’s ODI. Although Kuldeep remains India’s frontline wrist-spinner, the management may prefer another all-rounder to strengthen the batting lineup. With India placing greater emphasis on multi-skilled players, the final team combination will be closely watched ahead of the decider.
Updated India squad for 3rd ODI vs England: Shubman Gill (Captain), Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer (Vice-Captain), KL Rahul (WK), Ishan Kishan (WK), Axar Patel, Shivam Dube, Kuldeep Yadav, Jasprit Bumrah, Prasidh Krishna, Arshdeep Singh, Gurnoor Brar, Prince Yadav and Harsh Dubey.