ODI World Cup 2023: Hardik Pandya likely to return in final league match against Netherlands

Team India’s star all-rounder Hardik Pandya is recovering from an ankle injury at the National Cricket Academy (NCA) in Bengaluru.

As per BCCI sources, with the place of the Indian team almost certain in the semifinals, Pandya will be out of the team for longer period.

Pandya had hurt his left ankle while fielding on his own bowling in the game against Bangladesh in Pune on October 19. Subsequently, he missed the games against New Zealand and England. Now, the utility all-rounder is also set to miss the fixtures against Sri Lanka on Thursday and South Africa on November 5.

As per reports, Pandya will return to the team in the final league match against minnows Netherlands in Bengaluru on November 12.

“Pandya is recovering well and he is likely to return for the last league game. There is also a possibility that he straight away plays the semifinal,” said a BCCI official.

Pandya was supposed to join the team in Lucknow ahead of the England game but he was not with the squad.

In absence of Pandya, India’s Mr 360 degree batsman Suryakumar Yadav has taken his place. Moreover, veteran pacer Mohammad Shami has really impressed with his sizzling form. However, Pandya gives a very good balance to the team and his inclusion in the playing XI will bolster Team India’s chances in the all-important knock-out stages.