New Delhi:
It wouldn’t be wrong to say that India’s flamboyant cricketer, Hardik Pandya is an important member of the national team. The team doctor’s decision to rule Hardik out of the upcoming limited overs series against Australia due to a stiff back isn’t the best signs for India as the forthcoming World Cup in just three months away.
As far as Hardik's participation in the Indian Premier League (IPL) is concerned, there isn't absolute surety over his participation either. Meanwhile, Hardik is all set to undergo a strengthening program at the National Cricket Academy (NCA) in Bangalore.
While asked about Pandya’s participation in IPL, the sources told Hindustan Times that Pandya’s availability for a full season isn’t likely. However, he believes that it’s little early to give a final verdict on the subject.
“Too early to speak about that (IPL participation) at present. He has a stiff back and it is not like he is carrying an injury. After the three weeks of training at the NCA, he will once again undergo a fitness test and the decision on his participation in the T20 league will be taken then,” the source added.
After undergoing a lengthy rehab period, Pandya was drafted into the Indian team during the Australia tour. The Koffee with Karan controversy struck just as he was to be selected in the playing XI for the ODI series Down Under. After serving the suspension, Pandya made his way back into the Indian team against New Zealand.
“If you realise, Baroda wasn’t playing a game for 16 days since the match against Mumbai from December 14. While it is true that he had played just one game since returning from injury, the team management thought that it was best to have him around the team to ensure that he is fully recovered by the time the ODI series gets underway on January 12. The level of training and prepping goes a level higher when you are with the national team and under the watchful eyes of the Indian trainers,” board functionary told the paper.
