Washington Sundar Ruled Out of England ODI Decider at Lord's With Hamstring Injury

India all-rounder Washington Sundar has been ruled out of the third and deciding One-Day International (ODI) against England at Lord's on Sunday after suffering a hamstring strain during the second match of the series in Cardiff.

The three-match series is currently level at 1-1, with the final match set to decide the outcome.

Injury Sustained During Cardiff ODI

Washington, 26, sustained the injury while completing a run in the 33rd over of India's six-wicket defeat to England on Thursday.

After receiving treatment from team physiotherapist Kamlesh Jain, who heavily strapped his right thigh, Washington resumed his innings. However, he was dismissed on the very next delivery after edging a short ball from fast bowler Saqib Mahmood to wicketkeeper Jos Buttler for two runs.

He did not return to the field during England's run chase, with Arshdeep Singh replacing him as a substitute fielder.

Several Weeks on the Sidelines

According to information available to IANS, the hamstring strain will require several weeks of rest and rehabilitation, ruling Washington out of Sunday's decider.

His absence leaves India without a like-for-like replacement, particularly with seam-bowling all-rounders Hardik Pandya, Harshit Rana and Nitish Kumar Reddy already unavailable because of injuries.

Kuldeep Yadav in Contention

Left-arm wrist-spinner Kuldeep Yadav is among the leading candidates to replace Washington in the playing XI.

However, his selection is not guaranteed despite his strong ODI record.

Kuldeep Yadav's ODI Record

• Matches: 121
• Wickets: 194

Kuldeep has featured in only one of India's last 13 international matches across all formats following a difficult IPL 2026 campaign with Delhi Capitals before moving to Lucknow Super Giants.

His lower-order batting has often been viewed as a limitation when India balances its playing XI.

Alternative Team Combination

If the team management opts against selecting Kuldeep, India could strengthen the batting line-up by including both Ishan Kishan and KL Rahul, provided Rahul has recovered from the illness that forced him to miss the second ODI in Cardiff.

Batting Coach Confirms Injury Concern

Speaking after the match in Cardiff, India's batting coach Sitanshu Kotak confirmed the seriousness of Washington's injury.

"Washington's injury - which he had when he ran his first run to mid-off. His hamstring, I think, it looks like a bad injury, and next ball he got out."

Washington's Impact in the Series

Washington played a key role in India's victory in the opening ODI at Edgbaston, remaining unbeaten on 52 to help secure the win.

His absence is expected to be a significant setback as India look to clinch the series at Lord's.