Asia Cup 2018: Deepak Chahar likely to join Indian squad as Pandya's cover
Pandya sustained a back injury as he fell during his follow-through while bowling after which he was stretchered out of the field
After Hardik Pandya suffered an acute lower back injury in the clash against Pakistan, fast bowler Deepak Chahar is likely to join the squad as his cover in the ongoing Asia Cup. The 26-year-old right-arm pacer was a part of the India T20I squad for the series against England and made his debut in the third and the final match, finishing with figures of 43/1.
Pandya suffered an injury during the tie against Pakistan. The 24-year-old all-rounder fell during his follow-through while bowling after which he was stretchered out of the field. Middle-order batsman Manish Pandey replaced him on the field.
Here's how Pandya got injured:
— Gentlemen's Game (@DRVcricket) September 19, 2018
Later, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) gave an update about his health, however, it is yet to be confirmed whether he will be fit for India's next game against Bangladesh on Friday.
Injury update - @hardikpandya7 has an acute lower back injury. He is able to stand at the moment and the medical team is assessing him now.
— BCCI (@BCCI) September 19, 2018
Manish Pandey is on the field as his substitute #TeamIndia #AsiaCup pic.twitter.com/lLpfEbxykj
In case if Pandya fails to make it in the next ODI, there are chances that Chahar may grab his debut ODI cap straight away. He represented the Chennai Super Kings in the recently concluded IPL and also possesses the ability of batting under pressure conditions.
After beating Pakistan by 8 wickets, India will face Bangladesh (September 21), Pakistan (September 23) and Afghanistan (September 25) in their top four ties.