- By Manik Sharma
- Tue, 24 Oct 2023 10:54 PM (IST)
- Source:JND
India's key all-rounder Hardik Pandya is expected to be sidelined for India's upcoming World Cup encounter against England, set to take place in Lucknow on October 29. The development follows Pandya's unfortunate left ankle injury during India's match against Bangladesh, which led to his absence in the high-profile clash against New Zealand.
"Team India vice-captain Hardik Pandya sustained an injury to his left ankle while fielding on his own bowling during India’s match against Bangladesh at the Maharashtra Cricket Association Stadium, Pune," BCCI had said in its statement.
The injury, while not considered serious, prompted the Indian team management to adopt a cautious approach towards Pandya's recovery. A BCCI official commented on the situation saying team management are prioritising Pandya's long-term fitness over a swift return to the playing XI.
"Yes, Hardik is likely to miss the next match vs. England in Lucknow. It is more of a precaution at this stage and nothing serious," News18 quoted a BCCI official as saying.
Hardik Pandya did not travel with the squad to Dharamsala for the match against New Zealand and was advised to rest by the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) medical team. The decision to sit out was aimed at ensuring his full recovery without the pressure of a tight match schedule.
"The all-rounder was taken for scans and is advised rest. He will be under the constant supervision of the BCCI Medical Team," BCCI statement said.
"He will not be taking the flight to Dharamsala with the team on 20th October and will now join the team directly in Lucknow where India play England," the statement added.
The injury aside, India's campaign in the ICC World Cup 2023 has been commendable. The team, led by Rohit Sharma, is yet to taste defeat in the tournament and has displayed an exceptional all-round performance.
In Pandya's absence during the match against New Zealand, India made two strategic changes, bringing in Mohammed Shami and Suryakumar Yadav to bolster the playing XI, with Shardul Thakur on the bench.
The alteration turned out to be a masterstroke, as Mohammed Shami delivered a stunning five-wicket haul, making a promising return to the playing XI. Despite Suryakumar Yadav being run out early in the innings, it was a dream outing for Shami and the entire Indian team.