Shikhar Dhawan was ruled out of the World Cup due to his fractured thumb.
Team India were hit by a severe blow on Wednesday (June 19) as opener Shikhar Dhawan was ruled out of the ongoing World Cup due to a fractured thumb. Dhawan was replaced by Delhi teammate Rishabh Pant who was already with the side as cover for the opening batsman.
Dhawan was hit on the left thumb against Australia, but carried on to score a brilliant hundred in pain. Later it was revealed that he had sustained a hairline fracture.
India had been hopeful of having Dhawan back for the business end of the tournament, but it wasn't to be as he will need to wear a cast on his left hand until mid-July as confirmed by the BCCI.
Confirming his ouster, Team India Manager Sunil Subramaniam said, “Shikhar Dhawan has a fracture at the base of the first metacarpal of his left hand. He will remain in cast until mid-July which rules him out of ICC World Cup. We have requested Rishab Pant as the replacement.”
Shikhar Dhawan has posted a video on his Twitter account following the announcement where he is visibly emotional. 'Gabbar' as he is known by his fans wished the team all the best for their campaign and hoped to be back on the field soon.
“I feel emotional to announce that I will no longer be a part of #CWC19. Unfortunately, the thumb won’t recover on time. But the show must go on.. I’m grateful for all the love & support from my team mates, cricket lovers & our entire nation. Jai Hind,” Dhawan wrote along with his video message.