With the ongoing 2024 edition of the Indian Premier League reaching its midpoint, Indian cricket fans and supporters are anxiously awaiting the announcement of the Indian squad, that will represent the country in the upcoming T20 World Cup 2024, which will take place in the US and West Indies.
While the doubts regarding the participation of Virat Kohli in the T20 World Cup 2024 have now settled, however, the focus has been shifted to the inclusion of Hardik Pandya in the playing XI.
Hardik Pandya’s T20 World Cup 2024 Inclusion Looks Uncertain
Hardik Pandya has found himself under the scanner of criticism because of his below-par performances for Mumbai Indians in the ongoing season of the IPL. He has been struggling to score runs and is failing to take wickets. His form has prompted discussions between the Indian captain Rohit Sharma, coach Rahul Dravid, and chief selector Ajit Agarkar regarding the squad and Hardik’s potential inclusion.
Hardik Pandya occupies a crucial role in the Indian cricket team as the primary pace-bowling all-rounder. Despite his seniority and value to the team, his recent performances have sparked concerns about his form and effectiveness.
Hardik Pandya’s recent performances in the IPL have raised concerns about his form and fitness. He has only bowled in four out of six games for Mumbai Indians, and in a recent match, he faced challenges against MS Dhoni, conceding 26 runs in the final over. Additionally, his batting form has also been lackluster. These issues, coupled with past injuries and internal conflicts, have contributed to his struggles on the field.
As per a source close to the BCCI, captain and coach are presently not in favour of picking Hardik Pandya for the T20 World Cup 2024.
He can’t be picked purely as a batsman because Shivam Dube is in red-hot form.
— Madhav Sharma (Modi Ka Parivar) (@HashTagCricket) April 16, 2024
India’s bowling unit is facing challenges with Mohammad Shami sidelined due to injury and Mohammad Siraj struggling for form. With only Jasprit Bumrah showing consistent form among the senior bowlers, the absence of an in-form Hardik Pandya further weakens the lineup. Hardik’s return to full form and fitness is crucial for India, especially considering their quest to win ICC trophies after an 11-year drought.
