Harsha Bhogle opined on Hardik Pandya’s status in the upcoming T20 World Cup, addressing his injury concerns and bowling dip.
Cricket commentator Harsha Bhogle has ignited debate about Hardik Pandya’s inclusion in India’s squad for the upcoming T20 World Cup in June. Bhogle’s comments were likely raised by Pandya’s recent struggles with fitness and his limited bowling workload in the ongoing IPL 2024 season.
Bhogle specifically highlighted Pandya’s declining power-hitting abilities and questioned whether he justifies a spot in the T20 World Cup squad solely as a batter. “If Hardik is not bowling, does he make the T20 World Cup squad? Is he among the top six batters in India if he is not bowling? I’m not totally convinced of that because if he is not bowling and he is not finishing as powerfully, he needs to bat up, where all the competition is,” Bhogle said to Cricbuzz.
Also Read: Hardik Pandya’s Fitness Questioned by Simon Doull: Is Mumbai Indians’ Skipper Hiding an Injury?
Pandya, the captain of the Mumbai Indians this year, returned to cricket after a five-month absence due to an ankle injury sustained during the ODI World Cup last year. While he initially bowled a few overs upon his return, his bowling appearances have become increasingly infrequent, raising concerns about his ability to fulfil his role as a crucial all-rounder.
Nevertheless, Bhogle emphasised the value Pandya brings as a complete package, balancing India’s playing XI with his bowling capabilities. This is especially important considering the lack of regular bowling options among India’s top-order batters. Pandya’s ability to bowl four overs adds a vital dimension to the team’s bowling attack and ensures a minimum of two all-rounders, with Ravindra Jadeja also being considered.
Meanwhile, the 31-year-old all-rounder has been performing decently in the IPL, as in the 5 matches where he led MI, he managed 129 runs and scalped one wicket with an economy rate of 11.13. He will be leading the men in blue as Wankhede hosts ‘El Clasico‘ of the IPL on April 14th, i.e., MI versus CSK.
Also Read: Michael Vaughan Predicts Rohit Sharma’s Move to Chennai Super Kings After IPL 2024
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Last Updated on April 14, 2024
