Indian all-rounder, Hardik Pandya has been out of action for quite a while now and has not featured in any game for India since last September. He played his last match in a T-20 international against South Africa on 22nd September 2019.
The Indian cricketer underwent a back-injury which ruled him out for the series against West Indies and Australia. Hardik was hopeful of playing in the ongoing Test Series against New Zealand, however, the Mumbai Indians cricketer failed to recover on time which led to him being ruled out of this series as well.
“Team India all-rounder Hardik Pandya has been ruled out of the upcoming Test series against New Zealand. He travelled to London and was accompanied by NCA Head Physio Ashish Kaushik for a review by spinal surgeon Dr James Allibone. Hardik will be under rehab at the National Cricket Academy until he regains full match fitness,” the BCCI released a statement.
Meanwhile, in a recent development, it has been understood that the all-rounder is all set to make a comeback and will participate in the DY Patil T20 tournament. Playing for Reliance1 team, he will play in three league game matches- on February 25, February 28 and May 3 and as many in the knockouts.
“Yes, his name is there in the team list for Reliance1. He will play in the DY Patil T20, provided the National Academy (NCA, in Bengaluru, where he’s currently recuperating from his injury) releases him,” a source was quoted as saying in Times of India.
The National cricketers are likely to monitor Hardik’s performance in the tournament. If everything turns out well for Pandya, then the all-rounder will be drafted in India’s squad which will play three one-day internationals for South Africa.
Hardik Pandya has been an integral part of India’s team in all three formats. The 26-year old cricketer has played 54 one-day internationals and 11 test matches for India and has scored 957 and 532 runs respectively.
