Kedar Jadhav's World Cup chances are still alive: Here's how
Indian fans were in shock when all-rounder Kedar Jadhav was ruled out of the ongoing IPL following a shoulder injury. With less than a month to go for the ICC World Cup 2019, many believed that he would miss out. However, it is being reported that his World Cup spot looks safe, as the injury is not as serious as was thought initially.
Jadhav injures shoulder playing for CSK
The injury occured when Jadhav was playing for his franchise Chennai Super Kings in the ongoing IPL last Sunday. He suffered an injury on his left shoulder while fielding in the deep, which led to him leaving the field as he did not participate further in the match. Meanwhile, CSK coach Stephen Fleming confirmed on Tuesday that he has been ruled out of IPL.
Selectors to wait as close as they can
As per a report by ESPNCricinfo, the selection panel, led by MSK Prasad, is not rushing in with a replacement. Notably, the ICC has allowing to make changes in the preliminary 15-member squads for the tournament until May 23. Thus, Indian selectors are willing to wait until the end to assess Jadhav's situation, and they would only replace him if they are forced to.
Focus on getting Jadhav fit for World Cup
"He was going through the scans and working with Patrick Farhart (the Indian team physiotherapist), so there is obviously with one eye now on the World Cup and getting him fit," Fleming was quoted as saying during CSK's play-offs tie against Mumbai Indians.
Jadhav likely to be fit before May 22
As of now, Farhart has reportedly let the selection panel know that Jadhav is likely to be fit before Men In Blue depart for England on May 22. However, in case Jadhav is unable to make it, players like Rishabh Pant, Ambati Rayudu and Axar Patel are in contention to take his spot. India play their first match against South Africa on June 5.
Pant or Axar among ideal replacements
As we wait to see if Jadhav gets fit in time to make it to the World Cup, people have started picking their choice of replacement for him. Meanwhile, the author feels that Pant should get the chance as he can bolster the middle-order with his hard-hitting skills. However, given Patel's deadly form in IPL, he can't be ruled out either.
