Dinesh Karthik suffers back injury against South Africa

Dinesh Karthik, oldest playing member of Indian team, suffered a back injury during side's T20 World Cup match against South Africa here on Sunday and is a doubtful starter against Bangladesh at Adelaide.

Karthik, who has had a disappointing tournament with bat, struggled to cope with pace, bounce and swing on offer at Optus Stadium track and mand only six off 15 balls in a 52-run stand.

At end of 15th over Karthik was seen writhing in pain as he clutched his back and was on his knees.

physio immediately rushed out and, after a few minutes, he was seen leaving ground while holding his back.

While exact nature of his injury wasn't kwn it seemed like back spasms which can happen at times due to extreme cold that one encountered in Perth.

That he had sustained a back injury was confirmed by his teammate Bhuvneshwar Kumar.

"I kw he had some back issue. Obviously, physio will give a report and we will have more clarity after that," Bhuvneshwar said during post-match media conference.

With India set to play Bangladesh at Adelaide on vember 2, Karthik will have only 72 hours to get fit, which also includes a travel day to Adelaide.

Rishabh Pant kept wickets during last five overs and, considering Karthik's struggles on bowling-friendly Australian tracks, it won't be long before burly man from Rourkee is drafted into playing XI.