Hardik Pandya’s recent performances for Mumbai Indians in the IPL have raised questions about his role in the Indian team, particularly in the upcoming T20 World Cup 2024. The all-rounder has only bowled a solitary over in the last three matches, leading to speculation about a potential injury or a shift in his batting approach.
Former New Zealand cricketer Simon Doull believes that an injury is preventing Pandya from bowling at full throttle. “He’s injured. I’m telling you there is something wrong with him. He is not admitting it,” Doull said.
Indian commentator Harsha Bhogle has questioned whether Pandya should be selected in India’s T20 World Cup squad as a pure batter. “If Hardik is not bowling, does Hardik make the T20 World Cup squad?” Bhogle asked. “Is he among the top six batters in India if he is not bowling?”
Pandya’s batting has been impressive in the IPL, but Bhogle believes that there are other better pure batters in the team. “He needs to bat up, where all the competition is,” Bhogle said.
The BCCI selectors face a dilemma in deciding Pandya’s role in the Indian team. If he is not bowling, his value as an all-rounder diminishes, and he may face competition from other pure batters. However, if he is injured, the selectors may need to consider alternative options for the T20 World Cup.
Pandya’s absence from bowling could also impact the balance of the Indian team. He has been a key bowler in the past, providing crucial overs in the middle and death stages. Without his bowling, the team may need to find other bowlers to fill his role.
The situation surrounding Pandya’s bowling is a concern for the Indian team as they prepare for the T20 World Cup. The selectors will need to make a decision on his role based on his fitness and performance in the coming months.
