India’s opening batsman Shikhar Dhawan had sustained a shoulder injury during the final ODI match against Australia at M. Chinnaswamy Stadium, Bengaluru on Sunday. Ever since, there had been speculations revolving around the possibility of him accompanying the team to their next assignment in New Zealand.
Reports confirm that the 34-year-old opener has been ruled out of the five-match T20I series in New Zealand that is scheduled to begin on 24 January. Hence, Dhawan did not fly to Auckland with the team on Monday.
Dhawan had injured his left shoulder while fielding in the fifth over on Sunday, he had dived to save a shot of Aaron Finch in the cover region and in the attempt he hurt his shoulder. He was taken off field immediately and was later seen wearing a protection sling.
It is expected that either Mayank Agarwal or Sanju Samson may replace him as an opener. Prithvi Shaw may also be considered as he scored 150 off 100 for India A in a recent event.