Zaheer ruled out of second Test, Gambhir doubtful

India will, in all likelihood, go into the second Test against England at Trent Bridge, beginning Friday, with two of their main players missing from the line-up.

While Zaheer Khan is certain to miss the Test (and maybe the third in Edgbaston as well), Gautam Gambhir also appears heading in the same direction, having suffered an elbow injury while fielding at short leg during the opening Test.

Though the southpaw did bat during Thursday's practice sessio, question marks remain over his overall fitness.

Captain MS Dhoni was non-committal.

"We will give him (Gambhir) some time, and accordingly we will decide.

"It is disappointing not to have Zaheer for selection. However, it is an opportunity for the other bowlers to prove their mettle," he said.

Dhoni went on to admit that the Delhi batsman is not a certainty for Friday's match.

"He is definitely doubtful for this Test," he confirmed.

"Gambhir will be the best person to say how much pain he will be able to go through and keep performing," he added.