BCCI's Confirmation: Ruturaj Gaikwad Sidelined from IND vs SA Test Series, Replacement Declared

BCCI confirmed Ruturaj Gaikwad's exclusion from the Test series against South Africa due to a finger injury. Abhimanyu Easwaran replaces him. Injuries also affected the India A squad, leading to adjustments for their upcoming match against South Africa.

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In a recent update from the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), Ruturaj Gaikwad's unfortunate injury has led to his exclusion from the Test series against South Africa. Gaikwad, a key player in the recent India vs. South Africa ODI series, was an integral part of the planned Test assignments against the Proteas.

The decision to drop Gaikwad from the Test squad stemmed from an injury to his right finger, sustained during the second ODI of the series. The injury prevented his participation in the subsequent matches, prompting the BCCI medical team to rule him out of the remaining tour. Consequently, Abhimanyu Easwaran was named as his replacement in the primary squad.

"Mr Ruturaj Gaikwad suffered an injury to his right ring finger while fielding in the second ODI against South Africa in Gqeberha," according to a BCCI news release. He had scans, and the BCCI Medical Team has ruled him out of the rest of the tour after consulting with experts. He will be reporting to the NCA for additional injury care. Abhimanyu Easwaran has been nominated as his successor by the Men's Selection Committee."

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Additionally, changes were made to the India A squad for their upcoming match against South Africa A. Fast bowler Harshit Rana's absence due to a hamstring injury and the release of Kuldeep Yadav led to adjustments in the squad. Rajat Patidar, Sarfaraz Khan, Avesh Khan, and Rinku Singh were included in the India A squad following these alterations.

The reshuffled India A squad for the four-day match includes a mix of experienced and emerging players, aiming to maintain the team's competitive edge.

As the Test and India A squads undergo modifications, replacements, and strategic alterations aim to fortify the team's strength for the impending challenges against South Africa.