IND vs ENG: Mayank Agarwal ruled out of 1st Test after being hit by Siraj bouncer (PICS)

Mumbai: Opening batsman Mayank Agarwal on Monday was ruled out of the opening Test against England after getting hit on the helmet during while batting during India’s nets session at Trent Bridge in Nottingham.

"The BCCI Medical Team assessed him, and a concussion test was conducted. He has shown signs of concussion and is ruled out of the opening Test against England,'' the BCCI said in a statement.

'The 30-year-old is stable and will remain under close medical observation," it added.

India's squad for the five-match series in England – the first in the 2021-23 cycle of the ICC World Test Championship – has been marred by injuries, with Shubman Gill, Washington Sundar and Avesh Khan all returning home for rehabilitation.

In absence of Mayank, India now have the option of partnering Rohit Sharma with Abhimanyu Easwaran or KL Rahul, the other openers in the side. They may also look at pushing Hanuma Vihari to the opening slot, as they did in Australia.

The five-match Test series will begin at Trent Bridge from August 4 before the two sides move to Lord's, Headingley, Kennington Oval and Old Trafford for the remaining four matches. (UNI)