In a big blow to Team India ahead of  ICC Cricket World Cup 2019,  all-rounder Vijay Shankar was hit on his right forearm while batting at the nets. Shankar walked off in pain and is being assessed by the team physios. The extent of the injury is unclear but it could be a huge blow for the Virat Kohli-led Men in Blue as Shankar was seen as a player to take up the widely discussed number four slot at the impending big tournament.

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The selection panel had picked 'three-dimensional' Shankar as the player for number four spot in the team ahead of the likes of Ambati Rayudu and Rishabh Pant. Shankar's seam bowling skills worked as an additional advantage for the Shankar as the English conditions were kept in mind while picking the 15-member World Cup squad.

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Shankar was seen as a crucial player for the Kohli-led Team India and his all-round ability brings more to the team. Earlier, Shankar had impressed the fans and pundits after winning the 2nd ODI against Australia after bowling a cracker of a final over in Nagpur. He successfully defended 11 runs in final over, handing India a crucial victory in the series.

Today India to play their first warm-up match against New Zealand at the Kennington Oval in London.