Saini was also named as one of the four net bowlers for the World Cup.
Navdeep Saini, who bowled brilliantly during the recently held India Premier League for RCB, has not travelled to England with India’s World Cup squad due to a side strain.
Saini was named as one of the four net bowlers alongside Deepak Chahar, Khaleel Ahmed and Avesh Khan, to travel with the national team for the World Cup. The 26-year-old pacer was also included in the list of standby players for the mega event if the situation arises to replace someone in the main squad.
While there is uncertainty whether Saini will be able to take up the role, Team India are also likely to take a call on the other three net bowlers. Apparently, Chahar, Khaleel and Avesh have been at the India nets for over a week but one or more among them could be returning home very soon.
Given that the Men in Blue will play their first four matches in 12 days, the training sessions are likely to be short and sharp, which suggest that there isn't much need for the net bowlers.
Team India are leaving no stone unturned to gear up for the World Cup. After suffering a six-wicket defeat in the first warm-up game against New Zealand, Virat Kohli and company bounced back emphatically to register a thumping 95-run victory over Bangladesh in the second practice match.
The two-time champions India begin their World Cup campaign against South Africa at Southampton on June 5.
(With inputs from CricketNext)