India’s World Cup campaign received a major jolt on Tuesday with opening batsman Shikhar Dhawan being ruled out of the tournament for three weeks.
According to a report in India Today, Dhawan, who scored a brilliant century against Australia in India’s 36-run win on Sunday (9 June) was hit on his left thumb during his innings, but continued to bat.
Dhawan had gone for a scan on Monday and the report reveals he has a fracture.
The dashing opener will therefore, not be able to play India’s upcoming matches against New Zealand, Pakistan, Afghanistan, West Indies and England – all these matches are scheduled to be played in June.
In Dhawan’s absence, India are likely to open the innings with Rohit Sharma and KL Rahul, which would mean that captain Virat Kohli and head coach Ravi Shastri would have to, once again, make a decision on the number four slot, which was earlier filled by Rahul.
Designated standbys Ambati Rayudu and Rishabh Pant are in contention to replace Dhawan. However, according to media reports, the selectors might also bring in Mumbai batsman and India A captain Shreyas Iyer as he is a specialist number 4 batsman. Iyer is currently in England.
Dhawan is being regularly assessed by physio Patrick Farhart and also specialists are being consulted to get a clear idea on his availability in the remaining tournament. Dhawan didn’t take the field due to the injury during the clash against Australia and Ravindra Jadeja fielded in his place for full 50 overs.
