Details of the injury emerged after Sundar underwent scans following discomfort during a practice session. BCCI’s medical team prioritized his long-term fitness, opting for complete rest over risking aggravation. This decision comes at an inopportune time, with the Black Caps series serving as a vital dress rehearsal for global tournaments.

Sundar’s unique skill set – blending classical off-spin with contemporary white-ball aggression – makes him irreplaceable. His absence prompts urgent discussions on squad composition. Emerging spinners and uncapped all-rounders are likely candidates for a debut call-up, injecting fresh energy into the team.

Reflecting on his career highlights, Sundar’s Gabba heroics in the 2021 Test series remain etched in memory, but his T20 exploits are equally impressive. Averaging over 20 with the bat and striking at 120+, he embodies modern cricket’s demands.

Social media buzzed with reactions from teammates and fans alike. Hardik Pandya posted, ‘Miss you on the field, brother. Come back stronger.’ Meanwhile, New Zealand captain Kane Williamson extended best wishes, acknowledging Sundar’s class.

India’s tour itinerary includes three T20Is followed by ODIs, testing the bench strength comprehensively. Selectors must balance experience with youth, ensuring seamless transitions. Sundar’s rehab program is underway, with optimism for an early return.

This development underscores the fragility of international schedules amid packed calendars. As India gears up, the onus is on collective effort to cover for one of their most reliable performers.

Hasan Nawaz, a 23-year-old talent, will now rejoin the Quaid-e-Azam trophy for its seventh round, scheduled to recommence on November 11. While Fakhar Zaman’s return to the T20I squad has been confirmed, no direct replacement has been named for the ODI squad at this juncture. Zaman, who last represented Pakistan in T20Is during the Asia Cup 2025, brings valuable experience to the team. He was also part of the recent ODI series against South Africa, where he scored 45 runs across three innings.

The national team is set to engage in a three-match ODI series against Sri Lanka in Rawalpindi from November 11 to 15. Following this, the focus will shift to the tri-nation T20I tournament, which is slated to take place from November 17 to 29, with matches held in Rawalpindi and Lahore. Cricket fans can anticipate exciting contests as Pakistan aims to showcase its strength in both formats.

The T20I squad sees substantial changes as well. Josh Hazlewood and Sean Abbott will depart the T20I series early to participate in round four of the Sheffield Shield. Hazlewood will feature in the initial two T20Is, while Abbott will leave after the third match. Glenn Maxwell is set to return for the final three T20Is, and Ben Dwarshuis will join for the last two encounters. These strategic moves aim to balance international commitments with domestic red-ball preparation for key Australian players.