Hardik Pandya, the star all-rounder for Mumbai Indians (MI), has been under scrutiny for his lack of bowling appearances in IPL 2024. Questions are swirling about his fitness and potential impact on the upcoming T20 World Cup selection.
Hardik’s Limited Bowling Raises Eyebrows
MI captain Pandya has only bowled a total of 8 overs across 3 matches, taking just 1 wicket and conceding a hefty 89 runs. This translates to an unimpressive economy rate of 11.20. Even more concerning is the fact that he hasn’t bowled at all in some matches, despite MI using up to 7 bowlers in a single game.
Fans and Experts Speculate About Injury
This sudden drop in bowling appearances has sparked speculation about a potential injury. While Pandya himself maintains that his team simply hasn’t needed him to bowl, former cricketer Simon Doull isn’t convinced.
Doull, whose own career was cut short by injuries, believes there’s more to the story. “He went out and made a statement by opening the bowling in the first game, and then suddenly he’s not required?” Doull questioned on Cricbuzz. “He’s injured. I’m telling you there’s something wrong with him.”
Bowling Seen as Crucial for T20 World Cup Selection
Pandya’s injury concerns cast a shadow over his participation in the upcoming T20 World Cup. While some debate whether he could be selected as a batsman alone, his bowling ability is likely a key factor for the selectors. When Harsha Bhogle asked Doull if Pandya could be picked as a pure batsman, Doull firmly disagreed. On the other hand, Doull suggested that Pandya would need to bowl at least 4 overs per match in the IPL to stay in contention for the World Cup squad.
Pandya’s Bowling Performance Critical for MI and World Cup Hopes
With the question of his fitness looming large, all eyes will be on Hardik Pandya in the upcoming IPL matches. Both MI’s success in the tournament and his own chances of playing in the T20 World Cup could hinge on his ability to return to the bowling crease.