Team India’s interim skipper Shikhar Dhawan has revealed that all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja is a doubtful starter for the 1st ODI against West Indies. The three-match ODI series will get underway on July 22 (Friday) at the Queen’s Park Oval in Port of Spain, Trinidad.
Incidentally, Jadeja, who was appointed vice-captain for the series, has suffered a niggle on his knee and the medical advice being sought to determine the extent of seriousness of his injury. The management is unlikely to field Ravindra Jadeja in the three ODIs. The decision is hinging on the precaution to not aggravate his injury, supposedly on his left knee.
Dhawan, who will lead India in the ODIs, also echoed the same sentiments. He also backed the remaining bowlers to come good in the first game. Addressing reporters on the eve of the first game, Shikhar Dhawan said:
“Right now, he has a bit of a niggle so we don’t know whether he will be ready or not for the first ODI. Other than that, [Mohammed] Siraj is there, Prasidh [Krishna] is there, and we have got amazing fast bowling.”
“In spin, Axar Patel is there and Yuzvendra Chahal is there, we have a good bunch of bowling unit so it will be very impactful,” he added.
“I am quite excited to lead this side” – Shikhar Dhawan
In the absence of regular captain Rohit Sharma, Shikhar Dhawan has been handed the reins of the side. He has earlier captained a second string side against Sri Lanka last year. Expressing his delight at having availed the chance to captain the Indian team once again, Dhawan said:
“I am quite excited to lead the side. Whenever you get an opportunity to lead the youngsters, I share my experiences with them, I always love to share my experiences and bring impact in their games.”
Shikhar Dhawan will also like to put some runs under his belt to make a case for himself for the ODI World Cup scheduled to take place next year.
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