In a positive turn of events, India’s versatile all-rounder, Hardik Pandya, has successfully recuperated from his ankle injury sustained during the 2023 World Cup. Contrary to earlier speculations, Pandya is ready to take charge as captain in the forthcoming T20I series against Afghanistan.
A reliable source confirmed Pandya’s full recovery, debunking rumors of his probable absence from both the T20Is and the IPL 2024. Pandya’s consistent training regimen has aided his swift return to fitness, dispelling any doubts about his availability.
The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has been monitoring Pandya’s fitness at the National Cricket Academy (NCA), although an official return date is yet to be announced. BCCI Secretary Jay Shah previously highlighted the all-rounder’s concerted efforts towards regaining fitness and assured that his comeback would be announced in due course.
Pandya sustained the ankle injury while fielding during a World Cup clash against Bangladesh, leading to his replacement by Prasidh Krishna. Since then, he has been absent from the national squad. However, Pandya made headlines this month for a different reason altogether – his surprising move to Mumbai Indians (MI) from Gujarat Titans (GT) via an all-cash transaction. This trade saw Pandya assume the role of MI’s captain, replacing Rohit Sharma, a move that stirred a significant online uproar among fans.
With the impending T20Is against Afghanistan and the looming T20 World Cup, Pandya’s fitness assumes paramount importance for India. As a potential leader for the World Cup in June, his fitness and form are pivotal for India’s aspirations. Given India’s quest for an ICC trophy after a decade, his sustained fitness holds significant weight, especially considering his influential role in the team’s dynamics. The Men in Blue are eager to secure glory in the upcoming T20 World Cup after their historic win under MS Dhoni’s leadership in 2007.
