Vaibhav Tripathi
Rohit Sharma, the India captain, acknowledged that determining a specific return date for Hardik Pandya was not feasible. However, he provided positive updates on Pandya’s recovery progress at the National Cricket Academy (NCA). Pandya had missed India’s last two matches in World Cup 2023 due to an ankle injury sustained against Bangladesh on October 19 in Pune. The seam-bowling all-rounder is presently undergoing rehabilitation program at the NCA.
“See, his procedure after the injury is very positive,” said Rohit in the press-conference. “Whatever procedure he had to undergo after the injury, and the NCA, there were a lot of positive things. Right now, he is not available for tomorrow’s match. But it is an injury that we have to see every day how much percent he has improved, how much recovery has been made, how much bowling has been done, how much batting has been done.
“So, on a day-to-day basis, we would like to take a call. Because we are watching for the World Cup, so obviously, the matches are taking place every 3 – 4 days. We are watching the situation daily. So, it’s possible, as he is progressing. Hopefully, we’ll get a chance to see him as soon as possible. That’s all I can say for now.”
While there was an initial expectation that Pandya might rejoin the team before the England match in Lucknow, his stay at the NCA was extended due to a minor tear in his ankle. It is now unlikely that he will participate in India’s eighth World Cup 2023 match against South Africa in Kolkata on November 5. However, there are positive indications that he will return to the team in time for India’s league game against the Netherlands in Bengaluru on November 11.