Hardik Pandya sitting in the dugout | Source: X.com
Hardik Pandya’s limited bowling outings as Mumbai Indians (MI) skipper in IPL 2024 raised eyebrows, leading to speculation about a possible undisclosed injury.
Simon Doull, ex-New Zealand pace sensation, also aired concerns in a recent interview. Doull specifically raised concerns over Pandya’s fluctuating bowling strategies. In the face-off against RCB, Pandya bowled just one over, where he conceded 13 overs.
“You go out and make a statement by opening the bowling in-game no. 1, and suddenly, you are not required. He’s injured. I’m telling you there is something wrong with him. He is not admitting it. But there is something wrong with him for sure. That is my gut feeling,” Doull said while talking to Cricbuzz.
Pandya’s decision to curtail his bowling has sparked ongoing discussions this season. When questioned previously about abstaining from bowling against Delhi Capitals, Pandya cryptically referred to a “right time” rationale.
Hardik Pandya Avoiding Injury To Stay Fit for T20 World Cup 2024
There’s speculation that Hardik Pandya might be refraining from bowling to prevent risking a serious injury. With the T20 World Cup 2024 on the horizon right after IPL 2024, as a fast bowler, he might be prioritizing his fitness and avoiding unnecessary strain ahead of the prestigious tournament.
