Former New Zealand fast bowler Simon Doull has raised concerns about the fitness of Indian all-rounder Hardik Pandya, suggesting that he may be suffering from an undisclosed injury. Doull’s comments stem from Pandya’s limited bowling appearances for Mumbai Indians in the ongoing IPL 2024 season.
After opening the bowling in the first two matches, Pandya has refrained from bowling in the subsequent two encounters. In the match against Royal Challengers Bengaluru, he bowled a single over but did not return to the attack after conceding 13 runs.
Doull believes that Pandya’s reluctance to bowl is indicative of an underlying injury. “You go out and make a statement by opening the bowling in game no. 1, and suddenly, you are not required. He’s injured. I’m telling you there is something wrong with him. He is not admitting it. But there is something wrong with him for sure. That is my gut feeling,” Doull said on Cricbuzz.
Pandya’s injury concerns are particularly troubling given his recent return from an ankle injury sustained during the Cricket World Cup 2023. He has only played a handful of matches since then, and an injury setback could jeopardize his participation in the upcoming T20 World Cup 2024.
When asked about his decision to not bowl against Delhi Capitals, Pandya stated that he would bowl at the “right time.” However, his limited bowling appearances have raised questions about his fitness.
The issue has also sparked controversy among fans, with some booing Pandya during Mumbai Indians games. However, Virat Kohli has defended the all-rounder, urging the crowd to cheer him on.
