‘Hardik Pandya is not an automatic pick in ODIs…’ – Selectors shift focus to all-rounder’s bowling fitness
Selectors on Pandya’s chances of playing CT – ‘He’s not an automatic pick...'
Ace India all-rounder Hardik Pandya is not an automatic pick in the ODIs if he fails to pass the bowling fitness test in the 50-over format, per the selectors. A T20 WC winner, Pandya has impressed one and all with his performance in four-over spells; however, his absence from the ODIs and inability to complete ten overs in that format has kept the selectors worried.
With Team India only due to play six ODIs in the lead-up to the Champions Trophy 2025 (in February), the decision-makers will keep a close tab on Pandya’s bowling fitness.
Though the vice-captain for the marquee tournament in the USA, Pandya asked for rest from Sri Lanka ODIs, citing personal reasons, the selectors are keen to notice his performance in the domestic games.
Speaking to the Times of India (TOI) in a chat, a source close to the information said, "While he has done exceptionally well bowling just four overs in T20 cricket after returning from his injury, Hardik hasn't been tested in longer formats. His endurance needs to be monitored. The selectors will keep a watch on how he goes in the Vijay Hazare Trophy at the end of the year."
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Meanwhile, the BCCI selectors and the newly-appointed India coach, Gautam Gambhir, were reluctant to continue with Pandya in the leadership role owing to his fitness concerns, thus deciding to hand over the T20I captaincy to star batter Suryakumar Yadav until the next major assignment in India and Sri Lanka in 2026.
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Besides, the selectors have named Shubman Gill the new vice-captain in the ODIs.
"Hardik's batting has not been as explosive as it used to be. He played well in the T20 World Cup, but his true value comes through if he is bowling well and finishing his quota of overs. His last ODI was during the World Cup last year when he got injured. It means he would not have played ODIs for over a year. His workload needs to be monitored," the source continued.
Injury – Hardik’s nemesis
After he suffered a stress fracture in his back during the 2018 Asia Cup, Pandya failed to get back to being 100% for a longer duration. Several injuries, mainly concerning his back, kept reoccurring over the period.
Even during the 50-over World Cup last year, Pandya suffered an ankle injury during the Bangladesh game and was ruled out of the tournament. He returned five months later during IPL 2024, replacing Rohit Sharma as Mumbai Indians' new captain.
(With inputs from agencies)
