BCCI Provides Official Update On Rohit Sharma, Shikhar Dhawan's Fitness

Team India suffered two injury scares in the second ODI against Australia in Rajkot. Shikhar Dhawan, who scored 96 off 90, was hit on the rib cage by Pat Cummins while Rohit Sharma suffered a shoulder issue while fielding. As a result of the blow, Dhawan did not take the field in Australia’s innings. Rohit too sat out in the later part of the match.

Watch: Shikhar Dhawan Pokes Fun At Rishabh Pant After KL Rahul Impresses As Wicketkeeper

A day ahead of the game, BCCI has provided an official update on duo’s fitness. The board has confirmed that both the players are progressing well but a call on their participation will only be taken ahead of the game.

Since Team India will not be taking part in any practice session before the third ODI, the fans will have to wait till the final net session.  The team management might have retained KS Bharat as a backup. He had joined the team for the second ODI as a backup to KL Rahul.

Dhawan should be fit for the decider as he seemed to be alright during second innings and also took rest. In Rohit’s case, Kohli has already suggested that he is fit and there are chances of both the players participating in the decider.

The absence of any of these two players will cause a big issue for India as the team managemnt will have to promote Rahul up in the batting order. Batting at number five, Rahul came up with an innings of 80 off 52 and sealed his spot as a finisher. But if any of the openers sit out, he might have to move up.

The third and the final ODI of the series takes place on Sunday in Bengaluru. Rishabh Pant, who missed the second ODI due to concussion, is expected to walk back into playing XI. His inclusion will see Manish Pandey sit out once again.

Also Read: After Mushfiqur Rahim, Bangladesh Coaches Opt Out Of Pakistan Tour

In the case of Australia, they are likely to rest one of the three pacers. Josh Hazlewood, the fourth pacer in the team, will replace the rested pacer.

Australia won the first ODI to go 1-0 up in the series while India made a comeback by winning the second ODI. The winner of the third ODI will take the series.