Concerns grow over Hardik Pandya’s extended absence

There are growing concerns that Hardik Pandya’s absence from the Indian team may extend longer than initially anticipated. His non-participation in the Indian team’s optional practice session on Thursday is a clear indication that he won’t be available for the upcoming match against England on Sunday. However, there is now serious discussion about the possibility of his recovery taking even more time.

It has been reported that the Indian all-rounder is currently undergoing rehabilitation at the National Cricket Academy (NCA) in Bengaluru. The exact date of his return remains uncertain. Whether he will be fit for the match against Sri Lanka in Mumbai on November 2 or for the game against South Africa in Kolkata on November 5 is still a matter of speculation. What is confirmed at this point is that he will not be available for the Lucknow game.

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) had initially hoped that Pandya, who sustained an ankle injury in Pune while playing against Bangladesh on October 19, would recover in time for the Lucknow match. In a media release, the BCCI had stated, “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.” Informed sources continue to insist that it is a minor injury.

In the meantime, the decision on whether India will include a third spinner, such as R Ashwin, or opt for three pacers, like in Dharamsala, is yet to be finalized. The pitch in Lucknow is not extremely dry, which typically favours spinners over pacers, but the final decision will be made closer to the match. The Indian team is scheduled to have another optional practice session on Friday afternoon, according to a team spokesman.