Who can replace dengue-stricken Shubman Gill in India's World Cup opener against Australia?

India's opening batsman, Shubman Gill, has contracted dengue and is doubtful for the World Cup opener against Australia on October 8 in Chennai.

Gill was unable to participate in the training sessions at the MA Chidambaram Stadium on both Wednesday and Thursday due to his illness.

Update from BCCI

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), in an official statement, has confirmed Gill's illness ahead of the match.

"He is under the weather," the official BCCI update stated. "The medical team is currently treating him. We are hoping he gets better soon."

Who will replace him?

• Ishan Kishan is the likely replacement for Shubman Gill, expected to open alongside Rohit Sharma.
• As a left-hander, Ishan Kishan is an apt choice to replace Shubman Gill, as he has previously opened for the Indian team, providing the desired left-right combination for the opening partnership.
• The 25-year-old cricketer has played 25 ODIs and boasts an impressive average of 44.30.
• Kishan has registered three half-centuries in five ODIs as an opener this year.
• However, Rohit Sharma might also consider KL Rahul due to his extensive experience in international matches.
• Despite being a right-hander, KL Rahul's commendable average of 47.72 in 61 ODI games makes him a strong contender as an opener.

Gill not ruled out completely

The Board has not provided a definitive confirmation of Gill's unavailability; he is currently labeled as 'doubtful.'

Gill's presence in the first match is pivotal for the team, especially as they face the formidable Australian side in their opener.

Gill is regarded as a key player for the Indian team, and he has been in excellent form, having scored two centuries in his last four matches.