Hardik Pandya file photo
Just as Hardik Pandya thought his career was on the path to revival with the 2024 T20 World Cup triumph, the all-rounder faced a major setback in the shortest format. Not only was Hardik denied the T20I captaincy, after Rohit Sharma retired, but he was also stripped of the vice-captaincy post. As the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) chiefs and the selection committee remain concerned about his fitness and injury record, Hardik could be in line for a bigger setback in the 50-over format. While Hardik is still crucial to Team India’s plans in the shortest format, the Baroda-born cricketer may not find a place in India’s ODI squad for the Champions Trophy next year if he fails to consistently bowl 10 overs in a game.
Hardik himself called for a break in the ODI series against Sri Lanka for personal reasons, but a report in India Times stated that his place in the one-day team is also not a certainty.
“While he has done exceptionally well bowling just four overs in T20 cricket after returning from injury, Hardik has not been tested in longer formats. His stamina needs to be monitored. The selectors will keep an eye on how he performs in the Vijay Trophy Hazare at the end of the year,” a BCCI source told the newspaper.
After the Sri Lanka series, India are scheduled to play just 3 more ODIs before the Champions Trophy next year. Hence, Hardik doesn’t have many chances to prove his aptitude in the 50-over format. According to the report, his performances in the Vijay Hazare Trophy would be closely monitored by the selectors if he makes a comeback in the ODI format.
“Hardik’s batting has not been as explosive as it used to be. He has played well in the T20 World Cup, but his true value comes if he is bowling well and completing his quota of overs. His last ODI was during the T20 World Cup. last year when he was injured. This means he would not have played ODIs for more than a year. His workload needs to be monitored,” the source quoted.
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