Ishant Sharma is running against time to get fit for the Champions Trophy scheduled to begin in Pakistan from September 12. The lanky paceman, who is a part of the 14-member Indian squad for the biennial event, had sustained a right gluteus (buttock) muscle contusion during the third Test in Sri Lanka.

After his return — he has been rested for the ODI series in Lanka — Ishant underwent a fitness test at the NCA in Bangalore. He has been advised to take a few days rest before resuming full-fledged practice.

“He has returned from Bangalore on Friday after spending two days. He has been given a complete chart to follow for rehab. He’s been asked to do only light exercises now, and will start bowling only after a couple of days. Though he isn’t feeling the pain now, no one wants to take a chance,” said the bowler’s father Vijay Sharma.

The BCCI is non-committal on Ishant’s chances of making the Champions Trophy. “As of now, I can’t say whether Ishant will play in the tournament or not,” said board secretary Niranjan Shah.

Ishant’s coach Sharwan Kumar also feels the bowler shouldn’t be rushed into the team. “He is so important to Indian cricket. Even if there is a bit of doubt, he shouldn’t be taken to Pakistan,” Kumar said.