Chikungunya strikes Team India, Ishant Sharma to miss Kanpur Test

New Delhi: The Indian team was a dealt a significant blow on Tuesday after Ishant Sharma was ruled out of the 1st Test against New Zealand.

According to a report on ESPNCricinfo, the Delhi pacer is recovering from chikungunya.

Despite Ishant's absence, the team management hasn't requested for a replacement.

While the Kiwis have had plenty of problems with missing players, Ishant's illness was India's first.

Kane Williamson will be without all-rounder James Neesham and fast bowler Tim Southee for the series opener.

The four-match Test series will commence on September 22.

The first Test also marks the 500th match in whites for the Indian cricket team.