India are likely to miss the services of Zaheer Khan for the third Test as well. In a last-ditch effort, the left-arm pacer tried to test himself in the two-day game against Northamptonshire, but he pulled up short.
His participation in the match on Saturday was restricted to bowling just three overs. He bowled at half pace, just running in and looking to release the ball without bending his back. He was clearly wary of putting extra pressure on his injured leg.
It was easy fodder for the home team's opening batsmen and they duly tore into him. After being taken for three fours in his third over, Zaheer left the field, looking downcast. His figures read 3-0-24-0. "He is taking treatment and we will take a call closer to the third Test," said a member of the team management. Zaheer had picked up a hamstring injury on the opening day of the first Test.