Ishant Sharma set to miss Duleep Trophy 2017, Pankaj Rao named as replacement

The Indian speedster Ishant Sharma has been ruled out of Duleep Trophy 2017. Ishant, who was initially named in the India Blue squad, has been replaced by Chattisgarh pacer Pankaj Rao. Though, last week it was reported that the Indian speedster is enjoying his free time in England; the confirmation of him missing the tournament entirely came a day before the much-anticipated match between India Blue and India Red.

Last year, The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) gave affiliation to Chattisgarh when 27-year old Pankaj Rao made his debut for Chattisgarh. However, he was first seen in 2009 when he played against Railways.

India Red and Green have also made replacements

Meanwhile, K Gowtham, the Karnataka all-rounder will not take further part in ongoing Duleep Trophy, India Red skipper Dinesh Karthik confirmed the news on Tuesday. The off-spinner was a pivotal part of the team, but unfortunately got ill on the penultimate day of the match and couldn’t take the field the next day.

On the other hand, Indian Test opener Abhinav Mukund, who didn’t take the field in the first match against India Green due to dengue, hasn’t covered from the illness and in lieu of that will miss the entire tournament. Mumbai’s left handed batsman, Akhil Herwadkar is all set to replace him. For Dinesh Karthik, the illness of his statemate Abhinav Mukund has been a blessing in disguise as 32-year old will continue to lead the side for rest of the tournament.

As many as six replacements already, Kaushik Gandhi, who was initially roped in by India Blue, has been moved to India Green squad. His this year’s TNPL performance up the order has eventually rewarded him with Duleep Trophy selection, and he will look to prove his stature at this level.