Washington Sundar Ruled Out of Series-Deciding England ODI, Harsh Dubey Joins India Squad

India all-rounder Washington Sundar has been ruled out of the third and final One-Day International (ODI) against England after sustaining a right hamstring injury. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) confirmed on Saturday that Harsh Dubey has been added to the squad as Sundar’s replacement for the series decider at Lord’s on July 19.

The injury comes as a setback for India ahead of the decisive match, with the three-match ODI series currently level after England bounced back in the second game.

BCCI Confirms Hamstring Injury

In an official statement, the BCCI said Sundar suffered the injury during the second ODI at Sophia Gardens in Cardiff.

The cricket board added that the all-rounder will undergo medical scans and seek specialist advice to determine the next course of treatment.

“He will undergo scans and seek a specialist opinion for further management of his injury,” the BCCI said.

Injury Became Evident During Cardiff ODI

Sundar appeared uncomfortable during India’s innings in the second ODI after picking up the injury while running between the wickets. Television cameras later showed him receiving treatment from the team physio, who strapped his right thigh.

The all-rounder scored two runs before being dismissed and walked off the field in visible discomfort.

Following India’s defeat, batting coach Sitanshu Kotak indicated that the injury appeared serious.

According to Kotak, Sundar felt discomfort while taking his first run, and the injury affected him immediately before his dismissal.

Harsh Dubey Earns India Call-Up

With Sundar unavailable, the men’s selection committee has drafted in Harsh Dubey for the final ODI.

The youngster joins the Indian squad ahead of the must-win contest at the historic Lord’s Cricket Ground as India looks to clinch the series.

Sundar Had Played a Key Role in Series Opener

Sundar made an important contribution in the opening ODI, scoring an unbeaten half-century as India comfortably chased down England’s target.

However, he could not replicate that performance in Cardiff, where England secured victory to level the series.

Kuldeep Yadav’s Selection Debate Continues

Sundar’s injury has also renewed discussions around India’s team combination, particularly the continued absence of wrist-spinner Kuldeep Yadav from the playing XI.

Former India spinner Ravichandran Ashwin recently backed Kuldeep, describing him as a proven match-winner and urging the team management to give him more opportunities ahead of the 2027 ODI World Cup preparations.

Ashwin noted that while all-rounders such as Axar Patel and Washington Sundar add batting depth, Kuldeep remains one of India’s most effective wicket-taking options in the 50-over format.