IND vs AUS: Dhoni injured during practice session, likely to miss 1st ODI

Whether the injury is serious enough to make him doubtful for the opening ODI couldn't be ascertained. A final call is expected to be taken by the evening

In a major blow to team India, veteran wicket-keeper batsman Mahendra Singh Dhoni had an injury scare a day before the first ODI against Australia in Hyderabad. He was hit on in his right forearm while taking throwdowns from the team's support staff member Raghavendra.

Whether the injury is serious enough to make him doubtful for the opening ODI couldn't be ascertained. A final call is expected to be taken by the evening.

The former India captain had a long batting session at the nets and like all first-team players, he was taking throwdowns after the formal session. It was one such delivery from Raghavendra that kicked up and Dhoni was hit on the right forearm. Due to the pain, he didn't bat after that as a precautionary measure.

In case Dhoni misses out in the series opener, Rishabh Pant would be considered for the job of keeping wickets. That is the most likely option in case Dhoni fails to get fit in time. If the team management is keen on checking all the fringe batting options, then KL Rahul and Ambati Rayudu could both play in the XI with Rahul keeping.

India are aiming to bounce back in the five-match ODI series after losing both the T20s.

(With inputs from PTI)