There is good news for the Indian cricket team and fans. Injured opening batsman Shikhar Dhawan is expected to make a recovery before the semifinals of the ICC Cricket World Cup 2019 (CWC 2019). And importantly, he has not been ruled out of the tournament. Dhawan’s medical team has given an expected date for his comeback. Shikhar Dhawan Spotted During Team India’s Practice Session Ahead of CWC 2019 Match Against New Zealand, Watch Video.

As per a report by ESPNcricinfo, the Indian opener is likely to be fit to play towards the end of the round-robin stage and if all goes well he could even feature in the match against England on June 30 at the Edgbaston in Birmingham. After England, India are scheduled to face Bangladesh (July 02) and Sri Lanka (July 06). Post Shikhar Dhawan's Injury, Team India's Number 4 Conundrum Surfaces Again! Who Will Bat at Four; Vijay Shankar or Dinesh Karthik?.

As of now, Dhawan has been ruled out of matches against New Zealand (June 13) and Pakistan (June 16) and is likely to miss games against Afghanistan (June 22) and West Indies (27). India have called in wicket-keeper batsman Rishabh Pant as cover for the injured Dhawan. Batting all-rounder Vijay Shankar is likely to replace Dhawan in the playing XI and bat at number four. In Dhawan’s absence, KL Rahul is very much likely to be promoted as an opener.

Earlier in the day, India batting coach Sanjay Bangar also revealed that Dhawan might take 10-12 days to recover. “We're monitoring Shikhar Dhawan. He may take 10-12 days to recover, we'll assist him. Vijay Shankar is one of the options, if & when required. It's good to have back up. Rishabh Pant will be in Manchester,” Team India’s batting coach Sanjay Bangar told reporters. Shikhar Dhawan Hints ICC Cricket World Cup 2019 Ain't Over Yet, Says 'Hum Paron Se Nahin, Hauslon Se Udte Hain'.

Dhawan’s absence is a big blow to Indian team. The left-hander was in good touch and was instrumental in India’s win over Australia. Dhawan scored 117 off 109 balls and helped India in posting mammoth 352.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Jun 12, 2019 09:18 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).