Abhishek Sharma twisted his ankle [Source: @CrazyCricDeep/X]
India suffered a massive setback ahead of the second T20I, with star opener Abhishek Sharma being doubtful for the game due to an injury. As per Express Sports, Abhishek twisted his right ankle and might miss the second T20I at M.A Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai.
Abhishek's unfortunate injury is a huge setback for India, as the swashbuckling southpaw exhibited commendable form in the first T20I. Opening the batting alongside Sanju Samson, Abhishek hammered 79 runs off just 34 balls, ensuring India's clinical victory.
However, as he has developed an ankle injury, India might be forced to make some changes to their lineup for the second T20I despite a win in the last game.
Who Will Open In Abhishek's Absence?
As India don't have a reserve opener in their squad, we reckon stylish Hyderabad batter Tilak Varma will likely open the batting for the hosts if Abhishek gets ruled out. Being a left-hander and a magnificent player of pace, Tilak can form an ideal opening pair with Sanju Samson. Also, his ability to score all around the park could help India get a brisk start to their innings.
Meanwhile, captain Suryakumar Yadav, who batted at four in the last game, will likely promote himself to three, where he has recorded incredible numbers in the shortest format.
Nitish Reddy Likely To Be Promoted; Hardik, Rinku To Spearhead Finishing Department
If Suryakumar bats at three, India will likely slot Nitish Kumar Reddy at four, where he was impressive in the Bangladesh series. Statistically, Nitish has an average of 90 while striking at 183.67 as a number four batter for India in T20Is.
All-rounder Hardik Pandya and explosive batter Rinku Singh will likely play at their usual number five and six positions, respectively.
Sundar To Replace Bishnoi As India Seek Batting Depth
With Axar Patel coming at number seven, India might prefer local boy Washington Sundar at number eight, as he can ensure batting depth while enriching the hosts' spin unit with his wily finger spin.
On the other hand, India could bring Mohammed Shami, who bowled in full throttle during the practice session. Varun Chakravarthy, who bagged three wickets in the last game, will continue to lead their spin bowling department.
India's Potential Playing XI For 2nd T20I If Abhishek Sharma Is Ruled Out
Sanju Samson (WK), Tilak Varma, Suryakumar Yadav (C), Nitish Kumar Reddy, Hardik Pandya, Rinku Singh, Axar Patel, Washington Sundar, Arshdeep Singh, Mohammed Shami, Varun Chakravarthy