India have brought in left-arm spin-bowling all-rounder Harsh Dubey as a replacement for Washington Sundar, who has been ruled out of the third and final ODI against England due to a hamstring injury. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) confirmed the squad update on Saturday, with Dubey added to the team ahead of the series decider at Lord's.

Sundar sustained a right hamstring injury during the second ODI against England at Sophia Gardens in Cardiff. The all-rounder was unable to continue after picking up the injury during the match, which England won to level the three-match series. With the contest now tied at 1-1, India will face England in a crucial final match without one of their important all-round options.

In an official statement, the BCCI confirmed that Sundar had been ruled out of the remainder of the series. "Washington sustained a right hamstring injury during the second ODI at Sophia Gardens, Cardiff, and has been ruled out of the remainder of the series. He will undergo scans and seek a specialist opinion for further management of his injury," the board said.

Also Read: Harsh Dubey Replaces Washington Sundar Ahead Of England ODI Series Finale

The injury comes as a setback for India's team combination, with Sundar offering valuable contributions in both batting and bowling. His ability to bowl economical spells with his off-spin and provide stability in the lower middle order has made him an important part of India's plans in limited-overs cricket. His absence means the team management will need to reconsider its balance for the winner-takes-all clash at Lord's.

Replacing Sundar in the squad is Harsh Dubey, a talented left-arm spinner who has impressed with his recent performances in domestic and representative cricket. Dubey received his maiden ODI cap against Afghanistan in Dharamshala in June and made an immediate impact, finishing with figures of three wickets for 47 runs. His performance showcased his ability to deliver under pressure and contribute with the ball at the international level.

Dubey has also gained experience through India A assignments. He was part of the red-ball series against Sri Lanka, where India secured a 1-0 series victory. During that campaign, the all-rounder claimed four wickets and also contributed with the bat, scoring 30 and 29 in his innings. His ability to provide runs along with his left-arm spin makes him a useful addition to India's squad.

The inclusion of Dubey gives India another option as they prepare for the decisive ODI against England. The team management will now evaluate whether to include him directly in the playing XI or continue with their existing combination. With the series evenly poised, India's selection decisions could play a crucial role in determining the outcome.

The third ODI at Lord's will be an important test for India's squad depth as they look to overcome Sundar's absence and secure the series. For Dubey, the opportunity provides a chance to establish himself at the international level and make a strong impression if he gets the chance to feature in the final match. Meanwhile, India will hope Sundar recovers quickly after further medical assessments and returns for upcoming assignments.

Also Read: Harsh Dubey Replaces Washington Sundar Ahead Of England ODI Series Finale