Hairline fracture sidelines Pandya for at least six weeks

Allrounder Hardik Pandya has been ruled out for at least six weeks after sustaining a hairline fracture on his right shoulder. Pandya was released from the Test squad two days ago after being struck on the shoulder in a net session during the Mohali Test. It is unlcear yet if he will be available for the ODI series against England starting from January 15. No replacement was named by the BCCI.

Pandya was with the Indian Test squad for the first time in his career, after impressing the selectors with his pace and limited-overs form. He was the only uncapped player in the squad by the time he picked up the injury, with fellow newcomers Jayant Yadav and Karun Nair both making debuts in the series.

Pandya came into the Test squad through his performances on India A's tour of Australia earlier this year - where he impressed MSK Prasad, India's chairman of selectors - that got him picked for the ODIs against New Zealand in October. Pandya picked up four wickets in as many games against New Zealand and was seen as a useful option with the new ball, at least in white-ball cricket. His selection for Tests was seen as a left-field pick, but Prasad had said Pandya was included as much for his seam bowling as his aggressive batting down the order.