India vs Afghanistan: Saha ruled out of the one-off Test
What's the story
India have suffered an injury setback, as wicket-keeper Wriddhiman Saha was ruled out of one-off Test against Afghanistan. A broken thumb has forced Saha to take this decision. The Test is scheduled to be played in Bengaluru from June 14 onwards. The wicket-keeper suffered the injury during the Qualifier 2 of the recently concluded Indian Premier League.
Injured
Saha injured his thumb against KKR in IPL 2018
The Sunrisers Hyderabad player suffered a broken thumb in the match against Kolkata Knight Riders, after being struck off a delivery by Shivam Mavi while batting. Saha had opened the innings for SRH. The franchise informed the BCCI a day before the final, which Hyderabad lost to Chennai Super Kings. Saha missed Sunday's encounter with Shreevats Goswami replacing him for the tie.
Doctor's advice
5-6 weeks of rest for veteran Saha
Saha has been advised 5-6 weeks of rest to recover fully. India are scheduled to play a 5-match Test series against England starting August 1. The BCCI is yet to name Saha's replacement. It is likely that Dinesh Karthik would get the nod ahead of Parthiv Patel, given his form with the bat in IPL. Patel was India's 2nd choice against South Africa.
Information
Saha had a dismal IPL 2018
After failing to impress against Proteas in the Test series, the player continued his poor form in the IPL as well. He managed 87 runs in 10 matches. The England tour is important for him as poor scores may cast doubts over his future.