Agarwal replaces Sharma
Senior batsman Rohit Sharma was ruled out of the rest of India’s tour of New Zealand with a calf strain Tuesday, while the hosts said skipper Kane Williamson was also sidelined by injury.
Sharma retired hurt Sunday after blasting 60 from 41 balls in India’s seven-run win over the Black Caps in Mount Maunganui as the tourists swept to a 5-0 win in the Twenty20 series.
The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) said Sharma “sustained a left calf muscle strain” and would take no part in the three ODIs and two Tests yet to be played in New Zealand.
“He underwent an MRI scan in Hamilton on Monday... and will be referred to the National Cricket Academy (in Bangalore) for further management of his injury,” a BCCI statement said.
The Indian selectors have named Mayank Agarwal as Sharma’s replacement in the three ODI matches starting Wednesday. For the Test series starting February 21, Prithvi Shaw, Agarwal and Shubman Gill will be India’s opening options.
Prithvi Shaw, 20, returned from a doping ban in November last year after playing two Tests for India against the West Indies in 2018.
Paceman Ishant Sharma also returns to the Test team, but will be subject to fitness clearance following an ankle injury during a domestic game in January.
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