In what could be termed as an absolute blow to India’s World Cup conquest, opener Shikhar Dhawan has been ruled out of the tournament owing to a thumb injury he sustained during his side’s 36-run victory over Australia on June 9 at the Oval.
Dhawan, 33, was put under observation by the team management after the injury, while wicketkeeper batsman Rishabh Pant was called as a back-up. The 33-year-old was expected to recover in four weeks, but as things didn’t pan out as planned, the BCCI has been forced to write to the ICC asking for an official request to replace Dhawan.
Talking to IANS, a source close to the development of the entire progress has confirmed news by saying, "Dhawan has been ruled out. He is not in a position to take part in the World Cup," the source said.
Dhawan, who scored 117 of 109 deliveries against Pakistan picked up the injury through a Pat Cummins delivery. And although the X-ray didn’t diagnose a fracture, a negative report from the CT scan forced the BCCI to take Dhawan for further assessment.
"We will take at least 10-12 days to take a call on Shikhar's condition. We don't want to rule out a precious player like him," India’s assistant coach Sanjay Bangar had said before India’s third World Cup fixture against New Zealand.
He was eventually spotted in gym and also joined his teammates during the nets ahead of the Pakistan game, but as it seems, his journey has come to an unfortunate halt.
Meanwhile, youngster Pant has already joined the squad after reaching Manchester ahead of India’s game against Pakistan at Old Trafford on Sunday.
Feature image courtesy: AFP / Dibyangshu Sarkar
