Few days ahead of the upcoming Asia Cup 2022, Team India have suffered a huge injury blow. The fifteenth edition of the Asia Cup is scheduled to begin on August 27. The BCCI is set to announce the squad for the upcoming event next week. And ahead of the squad announcement, India are set to lose the services of one of their important players for the tournament.
Fast-bowler Harshal Patel is reportedly set to miss Asia Cup 2022 and is also doubtful for this year’s T20 World Cup. A T20 specialist, Harshal has become an integral part of India’s T20I setup. His ability to contain the runs at any stage of the game as well as his ability to score vital runs lower down the order has made him an indispensable part of the team.
According to Cricbuzz, Harshal Patel is suffering from a side strain that could leave him out of consideration for Asia Cup 2022. The squad is expected to be announced on Monday (August 8). The 31-year old is currently with the Indian team in the US for the five-match T20I series against West Indies but has not featured in the first three games.
Later on Saturday, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) provided an update on Harshal injury status stating that he “has not fully recovered from his rib injury and is ruled out of the remaining two T20Is against West Indies.”
Deepak Chahar likely replacement for Asia Cup 2022:
Harshal Patel’s chances for a place in the T20 World Cup squad will depend on his recover. Usually the side strain needs four to six weeks of rest and rehab. With Harshal set to miss Asia Cup 2022, Deepak Chahar is looking likely to replace him in the team. Chahar has been out of action since February due to injury but is all set to make his comeback this month after being named in the squad for the three-ODI Zimbabwe series.
Meanwhile, India are the defending champions of Asia Cup and will be keen to defend their title. Asia Cup 2022 is scheduled to be played in the UAE.