Hardik Pandya Likely to Return in India's Last League Match in the 2023 World Cup
In a piece of good news for Team India ahead of their match against Sri Lanka in the 2023 Cricket World Cup, star all-rounder Hardik Pandya, recovering from a thigh injury, is expected to make a comeback on November 12 against the Netherlands. Pandya sustained a thigh injury while fielding during India's match against Bangladesh on October 19 in Pune.
Following the injury, he missed matches against New Zealand and England, and he's also set to sit out during the Sri Lanka clash on Thursday and the South Africa match on November 5. India's final league match is scheduled for November 12 against the Netherlands, where Pandya's return seems probable. According to a BCCI source, "This is a minor injury, and he is recovering well with a high likelihood of returning for the last league match. There's also a possibility that he might directly feature in the semi-final."
With six wins in six matches, India has virtually secured their spot in the semi-finals of the tournament. Pandya's absence led to a change in the team's composition. India now plays with six bowling options and six batsmen, as opposed to the earlier configuration of eight batsmen and six bowlers. Suryakumar Yadav has taken Pandya's spot, batting at number six.
Despite Pandya's absence, the team management remains confident, thanks to the splendid form of Mohammad Shami, making Pandya's absence less noticeable. After the victory against England, bowling coach Paras Mhambrey expressed faith in Pandya's swift return. Pandya has been working on his fitness at the National Cricket Academy (NCA) in Bangalore.
Mhambrey said on Sunday, "The medical team is keeping a close watch on him. He's also in touch with the NCA. We hope to have updates in the next few days." As per the BCCI media release, Pandya was supposed to join the team in Lucknow before the match against England, but he was not with the team at that time.
This development will be closely monitored by cricket enthusiasts and the Indian team as they aim for a strong campaign in the World Cup. Hardik Pandya's return will undoubtedly boost the team's morale and their all-round capabilities as they look to clinch the title.
