Hardik Pandya Absence to Play in India’s Upcoming World Cup Clash Against England
Reports from News18 indicate that Hardik Pandya, the dynamic all-rounder of Team India, is expected to be absent in the high-stakes encounter against England in Lucknow, scheduled for Sunday, October 29.
Hardik sustained a left ankle injury during his first match against Bangladesh, where he attempted to field a ball in his follow-through. This unfortunate incident forced the 30-year-old to leave the field immediately. To alleviate concerns of a potentially long-term injury, Hardik was promptly taken to the National Cricket Academy in Bangalore to consult with a specialist doctor from London. Fortunately, the assessments indicated that the injury was not severe, raising hopes of his participation in the England clash.
However, the latest reports suggest that the team management is exercising caution and might refrain from rushing Pandya back onto the field, especially considering India’s favorable position in the 2023 World Cup. A BCCI official shared with News18,
“Yes, Hardik is likely to miss the next match vs England in Lucknow. It is more of a precaution at this stage and nothing serious.”
BCCI official To News18
Hardik has played a crucial role with the ball for India despite only having a chance to showcase his batting prowess in the initial match against Australia. He has claimed five wickets in three complete games, maintaining an impressive average of 22.60, contributing significantly to the team’s balance.
Rohit Sharma’s team has exhibited remarkable composure and continued their dominant run even in Hardik’s absence, securing victories over Bangladesh in the match where the injury occurred and against New Zealand in the subsequent game.