India’s cricket team is gearing up for their next World Test Championship (WTC) cycle, which is set to commence with a tour of the West Indies next month. Following their recent disappointment in the WTC Final, the focus now shifts to a Test reboot, with discussions of phasing out senior players in favor of fresh faces. While stalwarts like Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli are expected to be part of the upcoming series against the West Indies, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) will also consider the return of all-rounder Hardik Pandya to Test cricket. The official squad announcement is scheduled to be made in the coming week.
Hardik Pandya has been absent from Test cricket due to a series of back injuries. However, he appears to be fit again after his prolonged struggle with injuries. His last appearance in Test matches was during India’s tour of England in 2018.
According to a senior BCCI official, the selectors are keen on having Hardik Pandya back in the Test squad, but the decision ultimately lies with the player himself. The official mentioned that Hardik needs to assess whether he is ready to play all three formats, considering his significance in the One Day Internationals (ODIs) as well. Prior to the meeting of the BCCI Selection Committee led by Shiv Sundar Das to finalize the squad, the selectors and BCCI are expected to have a conversation with Hardik Pandya.
In a statement before the WTC Final, Hardik expressed his willingness to return to Test cricket but emphasized the need to earn his place through hard work. The upcoming series against the West Indies could provide the ideal opportunity for him to prove himself and make a comeback.
“I will go through the grind, I will earn my position and then come back. For that reason, to be very honest, I will not be available or play the World Test Championship Final or any future Test matches until I feel that I have earned my spot,” Hardik Pandya had previously stated.
The cricketing fraternity eagerly awaits the decision of Hardik Pandya and the BCCI regarding his potential return to Test cricket.
