Hardik Pandya’s participation in India’s upcoming World Cup match against New Zealand in Dharamsala on Sunday is in jeopardy after he injured his left ankle while attempting to stop a shot with his foot during his follow-through in the game against Bangladesh in Pune.
Following the injury, Pandya was sent for scans and will receive treatment at the National Cricket Academy in Bengaluru. His absence poses a significant challenge for the Indian team, as Pandya plays a vital all-round role.
"No major damage" đź—Ł
Rohit Sharma gave an update on Hardik Pandya's injury 👉 https://t.co/n3HNilIl1f #INDvBAN #CWC23 pic.twitter.com/XtoucXCxKC
— ESPNcricinfo (@ESPNcricinfo) October 19, 2023
While he can function as a specialist batter, his bowling skills provide India with a valuable sixth bowling option. In the first three World Cup matches, Pandya bowled 16 overs and claimed five wickets. Finding a like-for-like replacement for him is a formidable task, and India will need to revise their lineup against New Zealand.
Hardik Pandya's injury is being assessed at the moment and he is being taken for scans.#INDvsBAN#indiavsbangladesh #CWC23 #Gaza #Israel pic.twitter.com/xJzqaIF2Jf
— ANIKET (@_AniketKumar) October 19, 2023
One possible option is to include Suryakumar Yadav in place of Pandya and bring in Mohammed Shami for Shardul Thakur. However, this adjustment would leave India with just five specialist bowlers.
Despite this setback, India has managed to win all four of their World Cup matches and currently occupies the second spot on the points table, with New Zealand leading due to a superior net run rate.