Indian cricketer Vijay Shankar is the latest to join the injury list in the team. He suffered the injury after being hit on the toe during a net session on Thursday.
Jasprit Bumrah‘s toe crushing yorker had inflicted the injury to the all rounder during the training session. But speaking to press conference, Jasprit Bumrah has revealed that Vijay Shankar’s pain eventually subsided by Thursday evening.
“Yes, Vijay was in pain but it has subsided by the evening. Hopefully, there’s nothing scary,” the source said.
India are currently facing a major injury crisis. Bhuvneshwar Kumar was injured during Pakistan match. He will be sidelined for two to three matches. On the other hand, Shikhar Dhawan was ruled out of the world cup after sustaining a thumb injury against Australia.
However, Jasprit Bumrah gave a typical fast bowler reply after being asked about Vijay Shankar’s injury in the nets.
“We don’t obviously want to injure the batsman. Sometimes, when you play in the nets, nobody tells the batsmen not to hit. So they hit as well. It was unfortunate that he (Shankar) got hit. This is part and parcel of the game. But he is okay, he is fine,” the fast bowler assured.
Vijay Shankar was seen walking around in slippers with a slight limp. But later in the day, Shankar tried jogging but gave up after half a lap. However, he continued his training with some basic fielding drills.
Vijay Shankar could be doubtful for the game against Afghanistan.
Although, Vijay Shankar suffered a minor injury, he might not be fit for the game against Afghanistan on Saturday. In his absence Rishabh Pant or Dinesh Karthik will play in middle order.
Vijay Shankar looked in fine form with the ball against Pakistan picking up two wickets. But he should improve his power hitting down the order, as it was evident against Pakistan. He would be a big miss against Afghanistan. But this Indian team has plenty of talent in their roster.
Meanwhile, Jasprit Bumrah expressed his concern about missing Dhawan for the rest of the world cup. The southpaw was one of the best batters in the world. His loss is a big blow to India going forward into the world cup.
“He (Dhawan) is an important member and has been doing so well for so many years. Especially in ICC tournaments, his record is so good. It’s unfortunate incident that happened but you have to move forward and keep going,” he said.
Meanwhile, Bumrah also praised KL Rahul for his ability to adapt to team’s demands. The talented player was taken into the team as potential No.4. However, after Dhawan’s loss, team shifted him to open the innings. KL Rahul delivered in style with a well made fifty against Pakistan.
“It shows his ability to adjust according to any given situation. He was playing No 4 as well and he adapted. Against Australia, he got a few balls, but he hit those balls well.
“So he can adjust according to the situation. He can accelerate. So it doesn’t give us headache if we are facing any injury,” said Bumrah.