The excitement in the cricket world is palpable as India’s all-around sensation, Hardik Pandya, is ready to return to action after an injury. Who should make a place for this explosive all-rounder in India’s playing eleven is the biggest issue on everyone’s mind, including skipper Rohit Sharma and the team management, as the World Cup knockouts get near.
When Pandya injured his ankle during a match against Bangladesh on October 19, everyone noticed his absence. The Indian team had to make tactical changes in response to this unanticipated loss, as Mohammed Shami and Suryakumar Yadav were brought in to replace the dynamic all-rounder. The outcome? India won their matches against England and New Zealand, guaranteeing their position atop the World Cup standings.
Despite being benched for the first four games, Mohammed Shami was a revelation when Pandya wasn’t playing. Against New Zealand, he claimed five wickets and the much-coveted ‘Player of the Match’ title, making a huge impression. Shami maintained his excellent form in the next game against England, collecting four wickets to further solidify his spot in the squad.
In difficult circumstances against England, Suryakumar Yadav demonstrated his batting ability while Shami was brilliant with the ball. His capacity to adjust and perform well under duress was noted, and it significantly enhanced the team’s performance.
Madan Lal Names The Player Who Should Be Dropped For Hardik Pandya
Former Indian all-rounder Madan Lal, who was an important part of the team that won the World Cup in 1983, shared his thoughts on the discussion. He believes that the squad needs Hardik Pandya’s comeback, particularly in the semi-final and possibly final. Madan thinks that Pandya’s flexibility as a batsman and bowler gives the Indian squad a vital component.
He said: “India needs Hardik Pandya in the team. We have five bowlers and all are talented and performing. Hardik gives you a sixth option as a bowler. He bats really well too. Over the years, he has learned a lot of things and has been a vital cog in the Indian setup.”
Hardik Pandya is now recuperating and is anticipated to rejoin the team in Mumbai before the Sri Lankan encounter. Nevertheless, there is still no word on whether he will be available for the November 2 game. It is much anticipated that he will rejoin the starting eleven.
Hardik Pandya has played in four matches so far in the present World Cup, mostly as a bowler. Despite having little batting chances, he has scored a total of 11 runs. He has taken five wickets thus far, which speaks well of his efforts with the ball.
Invoking his own World Cup campaign as an all-rounder, Madan Lal highlighted how Pandya’s presence unquestionably improves the team’s balance. He felt that Shreyas Iyer ought to be the one to create room for Pandya’s comeback. Concerns were raised by Madan over Iyer’s performance, particularly his difficulties with short-pitched deliveries.
He added: “If someone has to sit out, once Hardik is back, it should be Shreyas Iyer…He hasn’t been impressive in the tournament. The way he is getting out to short-pitched balls is terrible. You can’t play such shots. He has to sort out his own problems first…Suryakumar can come in at number five and Hardik at number six. KL (Rahul) can come in at number four then. This is the simple way to go forward.”