Asia Cup 2023: Washington Sundar called as Axar Patel's backup ahead of final vs Sri Lanka

Washington Sundar has been called to join India's Asia Cup 2023 squad ahead of the mega final against Sri Lanka in Colombo on Sunday. The spin-bowling all-rounder is currently in Bengaluru where a preparatory camp is being held for the Asia Games-bound squad.

As reported by Cricbuzz, Washington Sundar has been called as a backup for Axar Patel who is facing niggle issues after his fighting 42-run knock against Bangladesh in the humid conditions of Colomo on Friday. The southpaw was seen in pain while running for runs in the match.

Washington Sundar will rejoin the Asian Games camp in Bengaluru after the final. The Tamil Nadu off-spinner last played an ODI in January this year. He hasn't been named in India's provisional 15-member squad for the World Cup 2023.

The 23-year-old was part of Jasprit Bumrah-led India squad for the Ireland T20Is. However, he did not pick any wicket on the tour. The southpaw batter also did not get a chance to bat in the first T20I. In the second match, he stayed unbeaten on zero off one delivery. The third T20I was washed out due to rain.

Earlier, Washington Sundar was ruled out after playing just seven matches in IPL 2023 due to a hamstring injury. Post his recovery, he featured in Duleep Trophy 2023 matches for South Zone.