According to the most recent report from the Press Trust of India (PTI). Star all-rounder and Indian T20I team captain Hardik Pandya is unlikely to be fit for India’s upcoming five-match series against Australia. Which is going to begin on November 23. Pandya has suffered a tear in his left ankle ligament.
The team for India’s home Twenty20 International series against Australia is expect to remain a secret until the Men in Blue play in the World Cup 2023 semifinal. Which is most likely happen in November 15 at Mumbai’s Wankhede Stadium.
According to BCCI sources who spoke with PTI. Hardik would be better off focusing on getting healthy in time for the South Africa T20 series. Which begin in Durban on December 10.
Hardik Pandya will Miss Australia T20Is
“There is some time before Hardik can fully recover and available for selection. It would be more practical for him to try and complete his rehabilitation with a possible ‘RTP’ (Return To Play) during SA series. It will certainly be the NCA Sports science team’s call,”. A senior BCCI source explained the development to PTI on conditions of anonymity.
In addition, it’s thought that either T20I team captain Suryakumar Yadav. Or Asian Games gold medalist Ruturaj Gaikwad will lead the team that plays Australia after the World Cup.
As per the report, despite playing in the ODI World Cup, Surya is a two-format white-ball specialist. This is in contrast to experienced players like Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, KL Rahul, and the prolific pace unit, which requires new players for the Test series.
“It is an accepted norm that white-ball Indian specialists (especially batters) can play 25-30 games per year. Across two white-ball formats apart from IPL, fitness permitting. Hence, if Surya himself doesn’t ask for rest, he is the favourite to lead the side. If not, Ruturaj is the next best choice,” the report added.
For more cricket updates, make sure to follow us on:
