In a huge blow to Team India, veteran opener Rohit Sharma has been ruled out of the upcoming three-Test series against South Africa due to an injury, Cricbuzz reported on Monday (December 13).

As per the report, Priyank Panchal, who recently led the India ‘A’ side on the tour of South Africa, has replaced Rohit in the squad while no decision has been taken on the vice-captain yet.

It was only last week that the Chetan Sharma-led selection committee named Rohit as vice-captain of the Test side and handed him the captaincy of the ODI team.

The report further says that Rohit sustained the injury while practising at the Bandra Kurla Complex in Mumbai. There is no clarity on his availability for the three-match ODI series against South Africa but the report suggests that the extent of the injury is quite serious.

According to Cricbuzz, Rohit won’t be able to take part in the Test series and BCCI will soon release a statement on his injury.

The three-match Test series between India and South Africa is slated to get underway on December 26 in Centurion. The touring is due to leave for the Rainbow Nation on December 16.

Given that the ODI series will begin on January 19, Rohit Sharma might recover in time to lead the 50-over side.

(With Cricbuzz inputs)