In a disappointing blow to Indian cricket fans, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has officially confirmed that star all-rounder Hardik Pandya will be sidelined for the much-anticipated India vs. New Zealand match in the ongoing World Cup due to an ankle injury.
The news came as a shock to cricket enthusiasts when the BCCI released a medical update, stating that Hardik Pandya’s ankle injury had ruled him out of the crucial clash scheduled to take place in Dharamsala on Sunday. The injury occurred during India’s recent match against Bangladesh at the Maharashtra Cricket Association Stadium in Pune.
Hardik Pandya, also the vice-captain of the Indian cricket team, sustained the injury while fielding on his own bowling during the encounter with Bangladesh. The extent of the injury prompted the medical staff to order scans and advise the talented all-rounder to take a well-deserved rest.
A statement from the BCCI read, “Team India vice-captain Hardik Pandya sustained an injury to his left ankle while fielding on his own bowling during India’s match against Bangladesh at the Maharashtra Cricket Association Stadium, Pune. The all-rounder was taken for scans and is advised rest. He will be under the constant supervision of the BCCI Medical Team. He will not be taking the flight to Dharamsala with the team on 20th October and will now join the team directly in Lucknow where India play England.”
Hardik Pandya’s injury is especially concerning given his vital role in providing balance to the Indian lineup, contributing with both bat and ball. This unexpected setback leaves the team with the challenge of finding a suitable replacement to fill his shoes for the upcoming clash against New Zealand.
Pandya’s injury became apparent during the Bangladesh match when he pulled up during his first over and was unable to continue participating in the game. His absence will undoubtedly be a significant loss to the team as they prepare to face the strong New Zealand side.
While the Indian cricket team faces New Zealand this Sunday, they will only play England a week later on October 29. Indian cricket fans will be hoping for a swift recovery for Hardik Pandya as they eagerly anticipate his return to the lineup for the upcoming match against England.
