India captain Virat Kohli offers update on Shikhar Dhawan fitness as Pakistan clash looms

The opener will remain part of the squad but is unlikely to feature much before the closing stages of the group phase and semi-finals

India remain hopeful opener Shikhar Dhawan will play again during the World Cup as they continue to monitor his injured thumb.

The 33-year-old's century in the victory over holders Australia came at a cost as he was struck by Pat Cummins and was unable to field during the chase.

Despite Rishabh Pant being flown to the UK as cover Dhawan remains part of the squad, with his condition being constantly monitored to determine his fitness for the remainder of the tournament.

Initial reports had stated the injury would take three weeks to heal but captain Virat Kohli has indicated the team will give Dhawan the opportunity to regain full fitness with the view of welcoming him back into the fold in time for the knock-out stage.

"He’s going to be a plaster for a couple of weeks and after that we will assess him," the skipper explained.

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"Hopefully he will heal quickly so he will be available for the final group games and the semi-finals.

"We will keep him here and hopefully that kind of positive mindset will help the injury heal."

The two-time winners' final group game comes against Sri Lanka on July 6, with the semi-finals scheduled for July 9 and 11.

After the abandoned clash with New Zealand, the third match in this World Cup in which a ball was not bowled to the rain, India face Pakistan at Old Trafford in a renewal of cricket's fiercest rivalry.

Following wins in their opening two matches against South Africa and Australia, Kohli is confident his side are in a good place heading into the game.

"We’re playing some good cricket so we're not too worried about where we stand," he added. "Having two wins gives you that extra confidence.

^{Pant is on standby having been flown to England as cover}

"We will have a couple of practice sessions so we know where we are in terms of mindset and skill. It’s also about going out and having game time. We are quite ready to take that game on.

He added: "As soon you as enter the field it’s calm and relaxed.

"The frenzy around it is a bit intimidating for the guys doing it for the first time but for us it’s about being professional as always, do the basics right and look to get a result your way.

"It’s an opportunity to create excitement. It’s been competitive for years and it’s a marquee event all over the world. It’s an honour to be part of a big game and brings the best out in me."

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