IND vs NZ: Shikhar Dhawan ruled out of five-match T20I series due to shoulder injury

Indian cricket team suffers a major blow as opener Shikhar Dhawan has been ruled out of the upcoming five-match T20I series against New Zealand due to a shoulder injury. 

The 34-year-old picked up the shoulder injury during India's third and final ODI against Australia.

It was during India's fielding that Dhawan landed awkwardly on his left shoulder while diving to stop a shot from Aaron Finch. 

The incident took place on the third delivery of the fifth over by Jasprit Bumrah. 

He was seen clutching his shoulder before walking off the field for medical assessment. 

Dhawan was taken for tests and he did not return to bat. KL Rahul came to open the chase for India in his place along with Rohit Sharma. 

The Indian opener was later seen with his left arm in a sling. 

Dhawan has also not travelled with the Indian squad that left for Auckland. According to ESPNcricinfo, the national selectors are yet to name Dhawan's replacement for the series. 

Earlier, the batsman had suffered a thumb fracture during the World Cup in Australia. He even had sustained a knee injury during the Mushtaq Ali trophy which required 27 stitches.

As for the clash, India and New Zealand will lock horns in the five-match T20I series from January 24. The two sides will then head into three-match ODI series and two Tests.