Shubman Gill Down With Dengue; Doubtful Starter For Australia Encounter: Reports

Shubman Gill has slammed seven centuries in 2023 [AP]

In a massive blow to India's preparation against Australia in their  ICC Cricket World Cup 2023 opener, batter Shubman Gill's availability is doubtful. 

As per PTI, Gill, who arrived with Team India in Chennai on Wednesday morning, has been confirmed for 'Dengue' and is being treated.

The star player missed India's training session on Thursday and will undergo tests today under the supervision of the BCCI medical panel. A decision on Gill's availability for the October 8 encounter at Chepauk will only be taken after tests.

The 24-year-old has been in rich form this year for India in One-Day cricket, amassing 1,230 runs with seven centuries. 

After a lean patch after the highly successful Indian Premier League 2023, Gill struck form in the Asia Cup 2023 and continued his dream run in three ODIs against Australia as well.

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The Gujarat Titans player scored 890 runs in IPL 2023 while ended with 302 runs in the Asia Cup, which India won. 

If Gill is ruled out, India will open with either Ishan Kishan or KL Rahul, where the Mumbai Indians player could get the nod over the Lucknow Super Giants captain.

Rahul's record in the middle-order of late has been stellar, and he has been in terrific form since his return from injury. 

Rohit Sharma and Co. will head into the tournament opener against Australia without any game-time under their belt as both warm-ups against England and the Netherlands were called off due to rain. 

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