Pathan in injury scare

Indian fast bowler Irfan Pathan is doubtful to start in Sunday’s one-day match against Sri Lanka after pulling up with a sore shoulder yesterday.

Pathan was sent home during his side’s recent tour of South Africa to work on his fitness ahead of the World Cup. Any long-term injury would be seen as a huge blow to India, who see him as a vital part of their World Cup campaign in the Caribbean next month.

However, Indian captain Rahul Dravid did not see the injury as a major issue. He said Pathan and other members of the side who faced similar circumstances such as Yuvraj Singh and Ajit Agarkar, would be fit and ready for the World Cup.

“I don’t think these niggles will hamper the World Cup selection, but it would be good if these players got the opportunity to play more matches,” he said.

“I’d rather have a few injuries now than in the World Cup.”