Ishant Sharma might miss the second Test due to injury
Ishant Sharma is set to miss the second Test against New Zealand in Christchurch after a recurrence of his right ankle injury. According to a report by Cricbuzz, the Indian seamer was present in the nets and did bowl for a while on Thursday. He then informed the management of pain in his ankle after bowling for 20 minutes on Thursday. Here is more.
Ishant's absence could derail Team India
The Kohli-led Team India had high hopes from Ishant, who was lethal with the ball in the series opener in Wellington. He was the only Indian bowler to grab a five-for in the first innings, which brought back India in the Test to a fair extent. The 31-year-old is also nearing his 300th Test wicket, having taken 297 wickets in 97 Tests.
Umesh Yadav likely to replace Ishant
Although Ishant's absence would be a big blow as India look to draw the series, Umesh Yadav is likely to feature in the XI in his place. Umesh played his last Test in November 2019 wherein India trounced Bangladesh in the historic Day-Night Eden Gardens Test. He snapped up a total number of eight wickets. However, he hasn't played an away Test since 2018.
Umesh fared well in Test cricket last year
Indian pacer Umesh Yadav has featured regularly in the longest format lately with Jasprit Bumrah out of action due to his injury. According to reports, head coach Ravi Shastri and bowling coach Bharat Arun were spotted having a lengthy chat with Umesh during the nets session. Umesh had a phenomenal home run in 2019, having scalped 23 Test wickets in 8 innings at 13.65.
India will be raring to go for the Christchurch Test
The dejected Team India would like to turn the tables in the upcoming Test at the Hagley Oval in Christchurch, commencing on February 29. Hosts New Zealand currently lead the two-match Test series 1-0. In six Tests played at this venue, the Kiwis have won four and lost one, while one was drawn. Besides, India are yet to play their maiden Test here.
