Injured Rohit Sharma out of ODIs, T20; Murali Vijay named replacement

Injured Rohit Sharma out of ODIs, T20; Murali Vijay named replacement

Zee Media Bureau/Chaitan Papnai

New Delhi: Indian opener Rohit Sharma has been ruled out of the on-going ODI series and sole T20 against England after picking up an injury on his middle finger of right hand during the practice session on Friday.

The opener will be replaced by Murali Vijay, who has been a Test opener for India.

It's a big blow to the Indian team, as Rohit played a fine knock in the 2nd ODI and added 91 runs for the third wicket along with Ajinkya Rahane. Rohit scored 52 runs off 87 balls, laced with four boundaries and a six, which helped India to get back on track after losing two early wickets in quick succession.

Murali Vijay is a fine replacement and can fill the void created after Rohit's departure, as he too is an attacking batsman, and can give England bowlers a run for their money.

India are one up in the five-match series after winning the second ODI at Cardiff. With the help of Suresh Raina's fine ton and excellent bowling display by Indian spinners, tourists thrashed the hosts by 133 runs.

First match of the series was washed out due to rain, without a single bowl being bowled. It means if the hosts want to win the series, then Cook & Co have to win all the remaining matches to lift the trophy.