The oldest player in the Indian team for the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2022, experienced wicketkeeper-batter Dinesh Karthik, is the most recent player to experience fitness issues. Karthik was replaced by Rishabh Pant for the remainder of the play after the 15th over of a Super 12 match against South Africa on Sunday in Perth. Karthik had one hand on his back and seemed to be in some pain as he left the field.
Before the two exited the field, Karthik was seen kneeling and gripping his back, which caused the team physio to run to the center. As South Africa went on to win by five wickets and clinch the top place on the Group 2 points table, Pant assumed responsibility for the wicketkeeping responsibilities.
Later, when questioned about the severity of Karthik’s injury, India pacer Bhuvneshwar Kumar replied that it will become evident after the physio gave the report.
“I am aware of his back problems. Naturally, the physio will provide a report, and then we’ll have more information, said Bhuvneshwar during the post-match press conference.” Karthik has only two days to regain his previous level of fitness because India’s next game is against Bangladesh on Wednesday in Adelaide. However, given the chilly conditions the players had to play in during the whole match in Perth, it’s probable that the wicketkeeper was experiencing back spasms.
Karthik, the team’s chosen finisher, hasn’t had a decent batting performance thus far. He managed only one run against Pakistan and then struggled on Perth’s fast track, scoring just six from fifteen.
Karthik may be replaced by Pant, who hasn’t played yet in the current competition, which is likely to happen. After Rohit Sharma decided to bat first, Lungi Ngidi destroyed India’s top order with a blistering spell, causing them to battle to 133/9 runs. Suryakumar Yadav led all with 66, and Rohit came in second with 15.
Using half-centuries from David Miller and Aiden Markram, South Africa exceeded the goal in 19.4 overs.
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