ICC World Cup 2019: Virat Kohli Provides an Update on Shikhar Dhawan's Injury

Indian skipper Virat Kohli has provided an update on Shikhar Dhawan’s thumb injury which has ruled the batsman out for the meantime. Dhawan was hit on the thumb by Pat Cummins in India’s second match against Australia. The southpaw batsman scored a fine hundred but it was later known that Dhawan suffered a hairline fracture which has ruled him out for three weeks.

Meanwhile, Shikhar Dhawan is going to be under the watchful eyes of the medical team of the Board of Control for Cricket in India. Virat Kohli has stated Dhawan is going to remain in plaster for a couple of weeks and he is hopeful that Dhawan can be fit for the fag end of the tournament.

Dhawan injury is a massive blow for India.

Virat Kohli said in the post-match presentation after rain forced India and New Zealand to share the two points, “He’s gonna be in a plaster for a couple of weeks and then, we’ll assess where he stands. Hopefully, he heals quickly and should be available for the latter half of our league stages, and the semifinals as well”.

On the other hand, persistent rain has continued to disappoint. This was the fourth match of the ongoing ICC World Cup which has been called off due to rain. Thus, it is disappointing for both the team.

Disappointing not to get the game.

“Disappointing not to get any game time at all. From the player’s point of view and where the teams are placed, it was better suited not to take the field when it is not safe to play. Don’t want an injury at this stage. We’ve been playing some good cricket, we’re not too worried about where we stand. Having two wins does give you confidence. A couple of practice sessions and we should be fine. It’s only about getting game time and that should happen on Sunday”.

Meanwhile, India’s next World Cup contest is against arch-rivals Pakistan on Sunday at Old Trafford, Manchester. Kohli stated that the marquee clash intimidates the young players who are playing in the World Cup for the first time. However, Kohli is aware that one should keep the focus on doing the right things.

The big match is on the cards.

“As soon as you enter the field, it’s all calm. All the excitement and frenzy around the game could intimidate guys who are playing for the first time. For us, it’s about executing our skills and we’re all professionals. It’s been competitive for a while now, it’s been a marquee event and it’s an honour to be a part of such an event”.

India and Pakistan will take on each other at Old Trafford, Manchester on 16th June.