With the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 just days away, the Indian cricket camp has received a massive shot in the arm. Captain Suryakumar Yadav has provided much-awaited clarity on the fitness of two key pillars: Reddy Anna the dynamic left-hander Tilak Varma and the versatile all-rounder Washington Sundar.

Following India’s clinical 4-1 series victory over New Zealand, the skipper addressed the media in Thiruvananthapuram, offering an optimistic outlook that has fans and selectors breathing a sigh of relief.

🏏 Tilak Varma: Ready for the Warm-Ups

Tilak Varma, who has been sidelined following a minor surgery (abdominal issue) earlier in January, is reportedly "shaping up well." Varma was missed during the New Zealand series, but his recovery at the BCCI Centre of Excellence (CoE) in Bengaluru has been ahead of schedule.

The Update:

"Tilak is much better. I heard he will be playing two games in Mumbai ahead of the T20 World Cup. He has started batting, bowling, and fielding. Hopefully, we have him soon," Suryakumar confirmed.

Varma is expected to feature in two match simulations/warm-ups in Mumbai on February 2nd and 4th. His return adds a vital left-handed option to the middle order and provides the "fearless" batting approach that SKY has been advocating for.

🎡 Washington Sundar: "Almost Started Bowling and Batting"

The situation surrounding Washington Sundar was slightly more tense. The all-rounder suffered a rib injury (internal oblique muscle tear) during the first ODI against New Zealand on January 11. Given his history with untimely injuries, there were fears he might miss the opening fixtures of the World Cup.

However, the "Big Boost" came when SKY revealed that Sundar is already back to skill-based training.

The Update:

"Washington is doing well. I spoke to him yesterday. He has almost started his bowling and batting. So he is also looking good. Hopefully, we get him back soon."

While Sundar might not be pushed into the early warm-up matches to ensure a 100% natural heal, the fact that he is already handling the bat and ball suggests he remains a primary contender for the XI against the USA on February 7th at the Wankhede Stadium.

🛡️ Why This Matters for India's Title Defense

India enters the 2026 tournament as defending champions and hosts, facing unique "home pressure." The availability of Varma and Sundar is crucial for two reasons:

1. Balance: Sundar offers a Powerplay bowling option and depth at No. 8, allowing India to play an extra specialist batter without compromising the 20-over quota.

2. Flexibility: Tilak Varma’s ability to chip in with off-spin and his aggressive strike rate against both pace and spin makes him a "tactical unicorn" in the top six.

📅 Road Ahead for Team India

The Men in Blue are set to assemble in Mumbai this week. Here is what the immediate schedule looks like:

• Feb 3: Team Assembly in Mumbai.

• Feb 4: Warm-up match (v South Africa).

• Feb 7: World Cup Opener vs USA (Wankhede Stadium).

With Ishan Kishan finding form (scoring a 42-ball century in the final T20I vs NZ) and Suryakumar Yadav himself rediscovering his "360-degree" touch, a fully fit squad makes India the team to beat.

The Big Question: With Tilak Varma returning, who makes way in the final XI? Will it be a selection headache for SKY and the coaching staff? Let us know your thoughts in the comments!