It’s a big blow for Team India as the left-handed opener Shikhar Dhawan has been ruled out for next 2 games against New Zealand and Pakistan.
Dhawan will be kept under observation in England in hopes of recuperating from his knock before any big decision is made regarding his appearance in the further matches.
‘Gabbar’ was hit by a bouncer by a rising delivery from pacer Nathan Coulter-Nile. However, Dhawan was the hero of India’s win over Australia on Sunday with a great knock of 117 of 109 balls. Opening the innings with Rohit Sharma, Dhawan added 122 runs for the opening wicket against Australia.
The left-hander did not take the field during the 2nd innings and was seen in the dressing room wrapping his left thumb with a cold Pack; Ravindra Jadeja fielded in his place for the entire 50 overs. India will take on Afghanistan on June 22 and it remains to be seen whether Dhawan can regain fitness by that time.
According to sources, Dhawan has gone to Leeds to undergo scans. Meanwhile, rising star Rishabh Pant and Ambati Rayudu are on the BCCI’s official standby list in case a replacement for Dhawan is needed.
Dhawan is being assessed by Patrick Farhart and specialists are being consulted to get a clear idea on his availability.
“Team India opening batsman Mr. Shikhar Dhawan is presently under the observation of the BCCI medical team. The team management has decided that Mr. Dhawan will continue to be in England and his progress will be monitored”, BCCI tweeted.
Social media is full of suggestions currently over which player should the Indian board call up as a replacement from India.
