The Indian team got a major setback with Prithvi Shaw's ankle injury in the practice match against Cricket Australia XI on Friday. Shaw's injury increased concern for Indian skipper Virat Kohli as the Mumbaikar was the only in-form opener in the squad.
The 19-year-old Shaw sustained serious ligament damage while attempting a catch on the boundary and, after scans at hospital, was declared unable to play in the first Test of the four-Test series which begins at Adelaide next Thursday.
Team officials hope he will be fit for the second test at Perth beginning Dec. 14.
Shaw is one of the fast-rising stars of India cricket after becoming the youngest India batsman to score a century on test debut during October's home series against the West Indies.
However, former England skipper Michael Vaughan thought it might be an opportunity for Rohit Sharma to be tested at the top in white clothes.
Vaughan tweeted, "Such a shame if @PrithviShaw misses the 1st Test versus the Aussies .. Fantastic young talent .. I personally would replace him with @ImRo45 at the top of the order .. He is far too good not to master Test Cricket."
India will surely miss Shaw in Adelaide, but the team management has a great chance to utilize Rohit who is yet to make a mark in Test cricket.
Rohit's inclusion as an opener will be a troubling sign for other two openers Murali Vijay and KL Rahul.
Rahul has been in terrible form, even the team management is troubled with his current form and Vijay is making his comeback into the team after getting dropped mid-way during the England tour.
Meanwhile, Indian batting coach Sanjay Bangar has slammed KL Rahul after his dismissal show against Cricket Australia XI.
After the day two play, Bangar said, "He (Rahul) has been looking in good shape, including today. It is just that he is finding new ways to get out. Even today, the ball was quite afar when he played it away from his body and lost his wicket. But what we are reading he is playing the ball well and he is one hit away (from form)."
"We know his ability and if he converts that to performances then it is important for the team. He is not a young player anymore and he is on his second tour here. He has played 30 Tests and he has a responsibility. We expect him to play with that responsibility and play his role for the team," the batting coach added.
