In a setback for India’s campaign in the ongoing ICC Men’s World Cup 2023, all-rounder Hardik Pandya has been ruled out of the team’s next match against New Zealand in Dharamsala. Pandya’s absence was enforced by an ankle injury to his left leg during a match against Bangladesh at the Maharashtra Cricket Association Stadium in Pune on October 19.
The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) confirmed that Pandya would not travel with the team to Dharamsala on October 20. Instead, he will directly join the squad in Lucknow for India’s encounter with England. The BCCI’s medical team will closely monitor his recovery and rehabilitation.
While the initial injury scare raised concerns, skipper Rohit Sharma shared a positive update, stating that there was no significant damage. However, the team will continue to assess Pandya’s condition daily to determine the appropriate course of action.
With Hardik Pandya sidelined for the next match, Lok Sabha member Shashi Tharoor, known for his passion for cricket, has put forth his recommendations for the Indian selectors. Tharoor suggested that India should consider two vital changes to maintain their momentum in the World Cup.
Shashi Tharoor proposed that Suryakumar Yadav should replace Hardik Pandya in the lineup, given his all-round capabilities. In addition, he recommended the inclusion of fast bowler Mohammad Shami in place of Shardul Thakur. Tharoor’s suggestions aim to address the absence of a genuine all-rounder in the squad following Pandya’s injury.
Tharoor expressed, “This match will determine who’s really top dog at the round-robin stage of the #WorldCup2023. We have to play the best possible XI!”
So @hardikpandya7 has been ruled out of India's next World Cup game, against New Zealand in Dharamsala on Sunday. Since he has to be replaced & there’s no other genuine all-rounder in the squad, we need two changes to cover both bases: @MdShami11 must come in at the expense of…
— Shashi Tharoor (@ShashiTharoor) October 20, 2023
India has been in excellent form in the ICC Men’s World Cup 2023, winning all four of their matches. They currently stand in second place on the points table, trailing New Zealand based on net run rate. As the tournament progresses, India aims to maintain their winning streak and secure their position as a top contender for the coveted title.
The suggestions put forth by Shashi Tharoor underscore the flexibility and depth in the Indian squad, which allows for effective replacements when key players face unexpected injuries. The team remains focused on its mission to excel in the World Cup, and the upcoming match against New Zealand promises to be an exciting encounter in the tournament.