India all-rounder Hardik Pandya has been ruled out of the Asia Cup 2018 owing to an acute back injury. As per a PTI report, Deepak Chahar is likely to be the replacement of Pandya. Chahar, who played for Chennai Super Kings in IPL 2018, will be joining the Indian team in Dubai on Thursday (September 20).

Pandya sustained the injury during the group stage clash against arch-rivals Pakistan on Wednesday. The unfortunate incident took place in the 18th over of Pakistan’s innings when the all-rounder after completing his follow-through felt pain in his lower back and lay on the ground in discomfort. After that, he went out of the ground on a stretcher.

Later, the BCCI issued a statement which read: “Hardik Pandya has an acute lower back injury. He is able to stand at the moment and the medical team is assessing him now.”

Meanwhile, Team India registered a thumping eight-wicket victory over Pakistan to finish the group stage on top.

Opting to bat first, Pakistan were bundled out for 162 as they couldn't handle the heat of the Indian bowlers. Bhuvneshwar Kumar and Kedar Jadhav starred with the ball as they shared six wickets between them.

In reply, India chased down the target in 29 overs, riding on fine partnerships between Rohit Sharma (52) and Shikar Dhawan (46). After Rohit and Dhawan's dismissal, both Ambati Rayudu (31*) and Dinesh Karthik (31*) ensured India crossed the finishing line.