Karun Nair replaces Shikhar Dhawan for third Test against Kiwis

PROMISING YOUNG BATSMAN Karun Nair has replaced injured Shikhar Dhawan in the Indian squad for the third and the final Test against New Zealand at Indore. Nair got his chance after Dhawan was ruled out with an injury to his left thumb. Nair, who made his international ODI debut against Zimbabwe in June this year, is yet to make a Test appearance. 

As reported by PTI, BCCI secretary Ajay Shirke confirmed,

“The All-India Senior Selection Committee have named batsman Karun Nair as the replacement for injured opener Shikhar Dhawan in the Indian team.” 

Sources have reported that Dhawan has sustained a minor fracture after being hit by Kiwi pacer Trent Boult’s bouncer during India's second innings of the Eden Test. After his dismissal, the southpaw was rushed to the hospital for an x-ray.

Speaking about Dhawan’s injury, India's media manager explained,

“A very minor fracture has occurred and he has been recommended 15-days rest, which effectively rules him out of the next Test.”

Although Nair has replaced Dhawan in the squad, it remains to be seen whether he can make it to the playing XI ahead of Gautam Gambhir. The 24-year-old batsman compiled 500 runs at an impressive average of 50 in the Ranji Trophy during the 2015-16 season and has been a prolific run-getter in the domestic circuit.

News Alert - @karun126 replaces injured @SDhawan25 in #TeamIndia for 3rd @Paytm Test vs. @BLACKCAPS #INDvNZ pic.twitter.com/7magS83d31

— BCCI (@BCCI) October 3, 2016

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