Hardik Pandya’s World Cup Dream Dashed by Ankle Injury: Opens Up on Recovery Journey

March 17, 2024 0 386

Hardik Pandya recounted how he sustained an ankle injury during a 2023 ODI World Cup league match, prompting him to receive injections.

India’s 2023 ODI World Cup journey faced a setback when star all-rounder Hardik Pandya suffered a sudden ankle injury during a match against Bangladesh in Pune, forcing him out of the tournament. Pandya, attempting to stop the ball, twisted his knee and had to leave the field without further participation. His absence led to Mohammed Shami taking his place in the team. The injury sidelined Pandya for over four months until his return in February during the DY Patil T20 tournament in Mumbai.

Reflecting on his injury, Pandya disclosed receiving injections to expedite his recovery after initially being told it would take 25 days, jeopardizing his World Cup participation. Determined to contribute, Pandya insisted on a five-day return timeline, undergoing injections and draining blood from his ankle to alleviate swelling.

“I had prepared for the World Cup for more than a year. It was a freak injury during the match. The injury was said to be for 25 days, and that would mean I would miss the rest of the World Cup,” Pandya told Star Sports.

“But I pushed. I told the management that I would return after five days. I got injections done on my ankle in three places. I had to remove blood from my ankle because of the swelling. I wanted to give everything,” he added.

Despite being unable to walk, Pandya was determined to play in the World Cup, even at the risk of aggravating his injury. His relentless effort, however, led to further damage, extending his recovery to three months. Even after the setback, Pandya maintained his commitment to his team, expressing that even a one percent chance of being with them was worth pursuing. Unfortunately, his perseverance resulted in him missing out on the opportunity to contribute.

India reached the World Cup final undefeated but fell short against Australia. Pandya, now recovered, is set to represent Mumbai Indians in IPL 2024, having rejoined them from Gujarat Titans in a cash trade the previous year.