Vice-captain Moeen Ali said Malan’s injury doesn’t look good.
“He is a big player and has been for a number of years,” Ali told the ‘BBC’.
“He has been one of our best players. I don’t know but it (Malan’s injury) doesn’t look great.”
England, who finished second in their Super 12 Group 1, will clash with Group 1 toppers India on Thursday.
“It doesn’t get bigger and better than playing India anywhere in the world because of the crowds and they are such a big side and force in cricket,” Ali said.
Phil Salt, the only spare batter in the squad, is the likely replacement if Malan does not take the field.