Drag-flicker Sandeep Singh has been ruled out of the Champions Challenge I hockey tournament next month due to a back injury and will be replaced by Diwakar Ram in the 21-member squad, a Hockey India media release said on Saturday.

The former captain, who is suffering from an acute strain in the lower back, has been advised at least three weeks of rest, following which his injury will be re-examined.

“As per the medical report of orthopaedic surgeon Dr Parag Sancheti, Sandeep is suffering from acute lumbar strain with right L5 radiculopathy. He has to undergo rehabilitation programme for a period of three weeks and has been advised not to do any strenuous activity which might aggravate his pain,” the release said.

“However, he can undergo his cardio exercises and rehabilitation programme. The surgeon has advised Sandeep to come for re-examination at Pune after three weeks,” it added.

Former junior India captain Ram comes in place of Sandeep as the penalty corner specialist for the eight-nation tournament to be played in Salta, Argentina, from December 6 to 13.