Photo via Hindustan Times

A year to the World Cup, and India’s Hardik Pandya question has no easy answer

Hardik Pandya remains sidelined for the upcoming New Zealand ODI series as he continues to manage recurring physical setbacks. The all-rounder has been absent from international duty throughout the summer following a back injury sustained during the IPL, with subsequent leg and shin issues further complicating his recovery at the Bengaluru facility.

Head coach Gautam Gambhir has emphasized that Pandya must demonstrate the capacity to bowl ten overs to be considered for selection, as his dual role is vital for team balance. While former players offer differing perspectives on whether to wait for his return or prioritize emerging talent like Nitish Kumar Reddy, the team faces uncertainty regarding his availability with the World Cup approaching in one year.

Pandya has accumulated 1,904 runs and 91 wickets in 94 ODIs, alongside significant contributions in the T20 format, underscoring his importance to the squad.

Up nextCricket· 2h ago

A surprise twist in Hardik Pandya IPL trade talk? Ashwin names his frontrunners