In a massive blow for Team India, star all-rounder and vice-captain Hardik Pandya will not be traveling with the squad to Dharamshala for Sunday’s clash against New Zealand due to a left ankle injury, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) confirmed on Friday.
Notably, Pandya limped off the field after injuring his left ankle while fielding on his own bowling during India’s fourth league game of the ongoing 2023 Men’s ODI World Cup against Bangladesh at MCA Stadium in Pune on Thursday. He later did not participated in the remaining part of the game which the hosts won comfortably by seven wickets.
“The all-rounder was taken for scans and is advised rest. He will be under the constant supervision of the BCCI Medical Team,” said the BCCI in a medical update.
The statement also said that that Hardik will now directly join the India squad in Lucknow for the league game against defending champions England on October 29.
Notably, in third ball of the 9th over Bangladesh’s opener Litton Das hit him straight as Hardik tried to stop the boundary on the follow-through however, he twisted his ankle. The team’s physio quickly made to the ground to check on Hardik. A few minutes later, although Hardik stood and went to the bowling mark but looked in immense pain and failed to continue with the bowling.
In his absence, Virat Kohli completed his over.
With four wins in as many games, the Men In Blue is one of two unbeaten teams in the ongoing marquee tournament.
The Rohit Sharma-led side will next face New Zealand in Dharamsala on Sunday and intrestingly, the BlackCaps are the only other unbeaten side in the competition.