Ishant Sharma out of first Test against New Zealand
Pacer Ishant Sharma has been ruled out of the first Test against New Zealand due to a bout of chikungunya. Though it has been reported that Anil Kumble does not want a replacement, it is possible that Shardul Thakur or Dhawal Kulkarni might be called into the squad.
India fast bowler Ishant Sharma has been sidelined for the first Test against New Zealand in Kanpur, as he is recovering from chikungunya, a mosquito-borne viral infection, reported ESPN cricinfo.
Despite picking up only 8 wickets in 4 Tests, Ishant played an integral part in India's 2-0 Test series win against West Indies recently, and was expected to lead the Indian pace attack in the upcoming series against New Zealand.
However, India's head coach Anil Kumble had not asked for a replacement for Ishant, reported the team management. It appears Shardul Thakur, who did not play a match in the West Indies series despite being selected for the tour, might earn a call up. Additionally, Dhawal Kulkarni who was in the squad for the India A tour to Australia, could also be another option.