Injury Troubles Grow for India as Khaleel Ahmed Returns  To India Ahead of Border-Gavaskar Trophy Opener

India faces growing injury concerns ahead of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy opener in Perth, starting November 22, 2024. Khaleel Ahmed, a reserve bowler, has been sent home due to an injury sustained during a practice session. Shubman Gill, dealing with a thumb injury, adds to the team’s preparation challenges.

Khaleel Ahmed Returns, Yash Dayal Replaces Him

India‘s left-arm pacer Khaleel Ahmed suffered a niggle during nets, which rules him out of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy. 

As a result, he was sent home for recovery, leaving a void in the team’s bowling. 

To address this, Yash Dayal, who impressed in the T20I series against South Africa, was flown to Australia. 

Consequently, Dayal’s arrival strengthens India’s pace reserves, alongside Mukesh Kumar and Navdeep Saini. 

Furthermore, Khaleel’s absence might affect his participation in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy, crucial for his IPL prospects. 

Ultimately, this injury continues India’s unfortunate trend of losing players at critical junctures, creating additional challenges.

Shubman Gill’s Participation in Doubt

India’s top-order batter Shubman Gill sustained a thumb injury during an intra-squad match, causing concern. 

Consequently, his availability for the Perth Test remains uncertain, although the team management hopes for a quick recovery. 

Gill’s absence led to the inclusion of Devdutt Padikkal, a promising left-hander, in the squad. 

Padikkal, who debuted earlier this year, has shown excellent form in recent matches with India A. 

If selected, he is likely to bat at number three in the opener. 

Moreover, Gill’s possible return is anticipated in the second Test or during the warm-up game against the Australian Prime Minister’s XI. 

India’s injury struggles, however, highlight the team’s resilience ahead of the gruelling five-match Test series. 

Despite these setbacks, India remains determined to challenge Australia in their own backyard.

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Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024 Schedule:

• 1st Test: November 22, Opus Stadium, Perth | Start: 7:50 AM IST

• 2nd Test (Day-Night): December 6, Adelaide | Start: 9:30 AM IST

• 3rd Test: December 14, Gabba, Brisbane | Start: 5:50 AM IST

• 4th Test: December 26 (Boxing Day Test), Melbourne | Start: 5:00 AM IST

• 5th Test: January 3 (New Year’s Test), Sydney | Start: 5:00 AM IST

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