Hardik Pandya to play in Vijay Hazare Trophy, bowling health in ODIs below scrutiny: BCCI official

Hardik Pandya’s ability to bowl consistently in ODI cricket has emerged as a major concern for the Indian team management, with just six ODIs remaining before the crucial ICC Champions Trophy next February.

Missed ODIs and Fitness Monitoring

While Hardik Pandya has opted out of the upcoming three-match ODI series in Sri Lanka due to personal reasons, sources within the BCCI reveal a different motive. They claim that his fitness, particularly his bowling endurance, will be closely monitored in domestic tournaments over the next few months.

“Bowling just four overs in T20s is a different challenge altogether compared to the demands of the 50-over format,” stated a BCCI source told TOI. “Hardik hasn’t been tested in longer spells since his injury. The selectors will be keeping a watchful eye on his performance in the Vijay Hazare Trophy later this year to gauge his bowling fitness.”

Fitness concerns for Hardik Pandya

Hardik Pandya‘s bowling limitations reportedly played a role in the recent selection committee’s decision to overlook him for leadership positions. With his availability uncertain, the committee, led by chief selector Ajit Agarkar and head coach Gautam Gambhir, are said to be hesitant to hand him the captaincy mantle.

This explains the appointment of Suryakumar Yadav as the T20I captain for the Sri Lanka series and Shubman Gill as the new ODI vice-captain, replacing Hardik.

Workload Management ft Hardik Pandya

The source further highlighted concerns regarding Hardik’s batting. “His batting explosiveness seems to have diminished,” they said. “While he did well in the T20 World Cup, his true value lies in his ability to both bat and bowl effectively. His last ODI appearance was during the World Cup last year, where he sustained an injury. This translates to a potential absence from ODIs for over a year. Managing his workload effectively will be crucial.”

History of Injuries and Inconsistent Form

Hardik Pandya’s career has been riddled with injuries, often making his comebacks coincide with major ICC tournaments. Notably, he was dropped from the T20I setup after the 2021 World Cup due to his inability to bowl at full pace.

With the clock ticking towards the Champions Trophy, Hardik Pandya has a lot to prove in domestic cricket. His performance in the Vijay Hazare Trophy will be a critical test, determining his place in India’s ODI squad and potentially even his leadership aspirations in the future.

Editors pick