India’s middle-order batsman, Ajinkya Rahane has been ruled out of the ongoing Test series against England and Manish Pandey has been called in as his replacement.
Ajinkya Rahane, who suffered with his form in the first three Tests of the series, was hit on the hand during a net session on Wednesday and the blow resulted in an avulsion fracture on the right index finger. As a result, Rahane has been ruled out of the remainder of the Test series against England.
The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) broke this news through a press release:
“Ajinkya Rahane sustained an avulsion fracture on his right index finger and has been ruled out for the remaining two Test matches of the Paytm series 2016 against England. A ball stuck Rahane during the practice session today.”
Ajinkya Rahane struggled in the first three matches and all eyes were on his as the fourth Test will be played at the Wankhede Stadium, which is his home ground.
India’s fast bowler Mohammed Shami is also a doubt for the fourth Test and Shardul Thakur has been called as back for him. This news was also confirmed by BCCI through a press release:
“Mumbai medium pacer Shardul Thakur has been called as back up for India pacer Mohammed Shami, who is nursing a sore knee. The BCCI medical team is closely monitoring his progress and a decision on his participation will be taken before the start of the fourth Test match,” the BCCI release said.
NEWS ALERT – @im_manishpandey replaces @ajinkyarahane88, @imShard come in as back up for @MdShami11 for 4th Test @Paytm #INDvENG pic.twitter.com/eFnCMZSfZj
— BCCI (@BCCI) December 7, 2016
