After whitewashed New Zealand in the five-match Twenty20 International by 5-0, they were whitewashed by the Kiwis in the three-match One Day International series by 0-3. Currently, both the teams are gearing up for the upcoming two-match Test series where India will get the service of their key pacer Ishant Sharma. India captain Virat Kohli and head coach Ravi Shastri can heave a sigh of relief now with this news as Ishant has passed the fitness test at the National Cricket Academy (NCA) and soon join the team in New Zealand.

While speaking to IANS, sources confirmed that Ishant has passed the test. “Yes, he has passed the fitness test and will join the Indian team for the Test series in New Zealand,” sources said.

The fast bowler had suffered a Grade 3 tear on his right ankle while playing for Delhi during a Ranji Trophy game against Vidarbha at the Arun Jaitley Stadium. Following day the reports came in where DDCA director Sanjay Bhardwaj had said that he might not play the Test series against New Zealand as he had been asked to rest his leg for six weeks.

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“He has been advised complete rest for six weeks, so there is little chance of him playing the Test series against New Zealand next month. When he goes to the National Cricket Academy will depend on his getting into a position where he can walk properly,” the former cricketer had said.

Ishant Sharma picked up the injury in the fifth over of Vidarbha’s second innings and his third. He was seen in pain and had to be taken off the ground as well as for medical attention. Ishant finished with the figures of 3 for 45 in Vidarbha’s first innings. India will take on New Zealand in the first Test from February 21 to 25, the second Test will be played from February 29 to March 4 as well.