As things stand, Hardik Pandya might not get a straightforward entry into the Indian squad for the T20 World Cup 2024.
An already-troubled Hardik Pandya could be in for a big setback if things don’t go his way in the ongoing Indian Premier League (PL) 2024. While the batter Hardik is yet to fire, having only scored 131 runs in 6 matches at an average of 26.20 this season. With the ball, Hardik has been fairly inconsistent to even take up the responsibility. He has barely bowled in the last 4 matches, and when he has, the opponent team’s batters have ripped him apart. With a place in India’s T20 World Cup 2024 squad, Pandya has reportedly been sent a clear message from the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) selection committee.
As per a report in the Indian Express, a meeting was held between India head coach Rahul Dravid, chairman of the selection committee Ajit Agarkar and captain Rohit Sharma at the BCCI headquarters in Mumbai last week. In the meeting, the topic of Hardik’s selection came up, with the management asserting the need for him to bowl regularly in order to be selected.
Hardik has bowled in different phases this season but is yet to leave a positive mark. As a powerplay bowler, he has conceded 44 runs in 4 overs, while in the middle-overs, he has gone for 62 runs in 6 overs. As a death bowler, he has given away 26 runs in just 1 over.
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Among the contenders for the spot Hardik holds in the team, Shivam Dube’s name tops the list. But, the selectors reportedly also have an issue with the Chennai Super Kings star, that he only plays as an Impact player for them. Dube is an all-rounder but hasn’t been used for his bowling by CSK this season.
The left-handed batter has impressed many with his power-hitting, especially against spinners, this season. If he does get picked for the T20 World Cup, he is likely to be used as a part-time bowler and not as a full all-rounder who can give the team 4 overs.
