Team India suffered a significant setback ahead of the second T20I against England, as opener Abhishek Sharma twisted his ankle during training at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai on Friday evening. The 24-year-old is now doubtful for the crucial match on Saturday, raising concerns about India’s opening combination.
Abhishek Sharma’s Injury Update
Abhishek, who was instrumental in India’s dominant seven-wicket win in the series opener, reportedly twisted his ankle during a training session. According to sources, the left-handed batter was in visible discomfort and was attended to immediately by the team physio.
The batter, who did not participate in the net session, was seen limping after the incident, casting doubts over his availability for the game. In the first T20I, Abhishek smashed a blistering 79 off 34 balls, an innings that included 5 fours and 8 sixes. His heroics helped India chase down 133 in under 13 overs.
Who Will Open If Abhishek Misses Out?
If Abhishek is ruled out, India faces a challenge in finding a replacement to partner Sanju Samson at the top. With no designated backup opener in the squad, the team management might promote either Tilak Varma or Dhruv Jurel to fill the role.
Shami’s Possible Inclusion
Meanwhile, Mohammed Shami, who missed the first T20I, is also under consideration for the second game. Shami bowled in the nets with a shortened run-up and a knee brace, suggesting he is recovering well. While the pacer is reportedly match-fit, India opted to bench him in the first game, relying on Arshdeep Singh as the sole frontline pacer, with Hardik Pandya sharing the new ball.
India’s spin trio of Varun Chakaravarthy, Axar Patel, and Ravi Bishnoi dominated England in Kolkata, making it likely that the team management will stick to the same bowling combination in Chennai, especially given the spinner-friendly conditions at Chepauk.
India’s Winning Formula at Chepauk
With a spin-friendly pitch expected, India’s spinners will again play a pivotal role in deciding the match’s outcome. England struggled to counter India’s spinners in the first game, and the hosts might not feel the need to tinker much with their winning combination.
As India prepares to double their lead in the series, all eyes will be on Abhishek Sharma’s fitness and the potential inclusion of Mohammed Shami. A thrilling contest awaits as both teams adapt to the challenges of the Chepauk surface.
