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The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) announced a 15-member squad for the upcoming Asia Cup on Monday. There were some obvious names like Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, KL Rahul, Suryakumaar Yadav, and a few others. Arshdeep Singh and Avesh Khan were the two fresh faces in the frontline Indian squad. R Ashwin also made the cut, which was a bit surprising for many.

With Washington Sundar fit and back in action, many questioned Ashwin’s preference. So, the question has been answered by a member of BCCI’s Selection Committee. He has explained why Sundar was not considered for the continental tournament with T20 World Cup also in the fray. The official said that the selectors are not seeing Sundar as the right choice for the T20 World Cup and hence he has not been included. Meanwhile, R Ashwin is set to fly with the team to Australia.

“He is a great asset for India team. But at the moment, he needs to work on his fitness and wait for his chance. We have spoken to him about T20 World Cup. Ashwin will be preferred in Australia. Washington will be backup in case of injury in T20s for now,” a member of the selection committee told InsideSport.

Although the selectors are not considering Sundar for the big event, there is an outside chance for the off-spinner. As already mentioned by the member of the selection committee, Sundar is a backup in case a frontline spinner gets injured. The all-rounder will have a chance to prove his fitness in the ODI series against Zimbabwe that starts on 18 August.

Sundar has started his comeback with a bang. He bagged eight wickets in two games for his county team, Lancashire. He then also claimed three wickets in two List A games. Sundar has looked in fine rhythm so far and will be excited to make his India comeback.