The injury to Shikhar Dhawan came at a wrong time for the Indian National Cricket Team. Now, they have got big shoes to fill, as the new opener needs to adjust with the conditions and get along with Rohit Sharma in running between the wickets and a few other areas. The possible option for the team is KL Rahul.
Dhawan had sustained the injury on Sunday but went on to score a match-winning 117 against Australia. He had gone for a scan on Monday and the report revealed that he has a fracture. Shikhar Dhawan will not be able to play at least 3 weeks.
Vijay Shankar might make his world cup debut If KL Rahul Opens:
Most probably, the Karnataka batsman KL Rahul would open the innings for the team. He got a good rapport with the vice-captain Rohit Sharma, who opens for the team. Apart from that, KL Rahul is originally drafted into the side as the third opener of the team before being used at number 4.
Now, the musical chairs for the number 4 slot will once again begin for the Indian team. As per fair play policy (not a mandatory though), the first chance would be given to Vijay Shankar, who was announced as the number 4 batsman for the team ahead of the tournament.
Well, there is also a good chance that the Tamil Nadu batsman Dinesh Karthik could get the nod in the playing XI. The experience of Karthik and ability to perform under the pressure would help him get a game. However, it would be an interesting call for team management.
Meanwhile, the replacement for Shikhar Dhawan would be an intriguing aspect. So far, the reports suggest that Rishabh Pant is the strong contender to get the nod for the grand event. The positive thing about Pant is that he can open the innings and can also be used at number 4 position.
All in all, it remains to be see how the Indian team management would operate things for the upcoming clash against New Zealand. If it gets washed out, they should make a key change for the high-profile Pakistan clash.