Injured Harbhajan doubtful for first Windies Test

Indian off-spinner Harbhajan Singh is doubtful for the first Test against West Indies starting on Thursday in Guyana because of a shoulder injury.

Singh was hurt while attempting a throw from the boundary on the final day of India's opening three-day tour game against a Guyana President's XI on Sunday.

Jagmohan Dalmiya, president of the Board of Control for Cricket in India said in a statement on Monday that Singh had flown to Trinidad for a scan.

"Harbhajan Singh experienced an uncomfortable sensation in the right shoulder," the statement said.

"This occurred during a single hard throw from the boundary. While he was able to bowl three overs following this incident, he felt it was best to come off the field for treatment."

The tourists won the game in Georgetown by nine wickets. The first of India's five Tests is being played at the same venue.

Fellow off-spinner Sarandeep Singh has been told to be ready to fly out to the Caribbean at short notice if Harbhajan is ruled out for the opening game.

Dalmiya, however, said Singh was confident of recovering for the first Test.

Singh and experienced leg-spinner Anil Kumble are regarded as key players for India, who are chasing their first Test series victory outside the sub-continent for 16 years.

The off-spinner took four for 37 in the first innings of the tour opener.

PTI

Mail Cricket Editor