Mayank Agarwal stable but can't talk for next 48 hours, Skipper to miss Karnataka's next Ranji game

Karnataka Captain and India batter Mayank Agarwal found himself in a health scare while aboard a flight from Agartala. After reportedly consuming a 'poisonous liquid' before take-off, he experienced throat irritation and lip swelling. Prompt medical attention was provided as he was swiftly admitted to a local hospital upon landing. Fortunately, the latest reports indicate that he is now out of danger and set to be discharged from the hospital on Wednesday.

Despite his condition being stable, he will require a 48-hour period of rest, during which speaking will be difficult due to ulcers and swelling. Karnataka team manager Ramesh confirmed Mayank's imminent return to Bengaluru, where he will continue to recuperate under observation. The cricketing fraternity breathed a sigh of relief as Mayank's health took precedence amidst his professional commitments.

"We were about to take off, and Mayank felt thirsty. So, he drank water kept behind the seat pocket in front of his seat. After a few minutes, he realised that his throat was itching, and he felt the urge to vomit. Consequently, he rushed to the washroom near the cockpit and informed the air hostess," Karnataka team manager Ramesh was quoted as saying by India Today.

"The air hostess immediately rang the emergency bell and checked if there was any doctor available on the flight. Unfortunately, there was no doctor, so the pilot was informed, and a message was sent to the airport authority. Doctors came to see him, and they said, 'We can't provide first aid here; he needs to be hospitalised.' An ambulance arrived, and he was taken to the hospital," he added.

Agarwal files complaint suspecting foul play

The 32-year-old's ordeal took a serious turn as he filed a police complaint in Agartala, suspecting foul play after consuming a 'poisonous' substance while aboard a flight. The incident disrupted his journey to Surat, where Karnataka was slated to play their next Ranji Trophy 2024 fixture. the right-handed batter, who led Karnataka to victory against Tripura, will sadly miss the upcoming clash against Railways in Surat from February 2 to 5. 

However, hopes arise for his return as he targets the game against Tamil Nadu in Chennai from February 9 to 13. Ramesh, the team manager, confirmed Mayank Agarwal's absence and outlined the anticipated timeline for his recovery. Meanwhile, Tripura's state health secretary, Kiran Gitte, assured that authorities are taking Agarwal's complaint seriously, initiating an investigation into the unsettling incident aboard the flight.