Xtra Time Web Desk: Indian all-rounder Washington Sundar is set to join the India squad in Colombo for the Asia Cup 2023 final against Sri Lanka on Sunday. This development comes as cover for Axar Patel, who is dealing with injuries sustained during the Super Four match against Bangladesh. The extent of Axar’s injuries is uncertain, raising doubts about his availability for the final.
Sundar, aged 23, is part of India’s Asian Games squad and is currently in Bengaluru. After the Asia Cup final, he is expected to return to the Asian Games camp, which runs until September 23 in preparation for the upcoming games in Hangzhou, China.
Axar Patel’s performance in the crucial match against Bangladesh was noteworthy, scoring 42 runs off 34 deliveries and participating in crucial partnerships with Shubman Gill and Shardul Thakur. However, his dismissal in the penultimate over left India’s hopes hanging by a thread.
Sundar, known for his left-handed batting and off-spin bowling, last played an ODI against New Zealand in January but missed out on the provisional 15-man World Cup squad. If included in the final lineup, his off-spin skills could prove valuable against Sri Lanka’s left-handed batsmen, especially on the helpful Colombo track. His versatility makes him a valuable addition to the Indian squad for the crucial Asia Cup final.