ODI World Cup 2023: Hardik Pandya set to miss next two India’s games against Sri Lanka and South Africa

Hardik Pandya, the irreplaceable all-rounder for the Indian white-ball team, will have to sit out from the next two important ODI World Cup 2023 matches against Sri Lanka and South Africa.

Hardik Pandya’s injury during Bangladesh game

Pandya’s versatile contributions with both bat and ball are essential for maintaining the team’s equilibrium. However, he unfortunately suffered a left-foot ankle injury during a game against Bangladesh in Pune, which has kept him sidelined for subsequent games against New Zealand and England. Despite India’s impeccable performance, winning the initial six of their fixtures in the ongoing CWC and leading the points table, the management is taking a cautious approach regarding Pandya’s return.

Update regarding Pandya’s injury

According to an ESPNcricinfo report, India’s management appears determined not to hasten his return, with a focus on a cautious and deliberate rehabilitation process. The earliest likely comeback for Pandya could be in the final game of the league stages, scheduled against the Netherlands on Sunday (November 12).

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The challenge of maintaining team balance

Pandya’s absence, with his invaluable all-round skills, forced India to make adjustments in their playing XI. Suryakumar Yadav was drafted into the lineup to strengthen the batting, while Mohammad Shami was included to provide an extra punch to the bowling department. This reshuffling was aimed to maintain the team’s balance despite the absence of Pandya’s versatile contributions.

India’s upcoming matches against Sri Lanka and South Africa

While India continues to dominate the tournament, their unbeaten streak intact, the impending game against Sri Lanka in Mumbai on Thursday November 2 is significant, followed by a crucial clash against South Africa in Kolkata on Sunday, November 5. The league stages of the 50-over mega event will conclude with a India’s match against the Netherlands in Bengaluru.

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