Leading all-around player Hardik Pandya is on the path to re-joining Team India in Mumbai prior to their highly anticipated ODI World Cup match against Sri Lanka. The Men in Blue are scheduled to face the Lankans at the iconic Wankhede Stadium on November 2, marking a significant encounter reminiscent of the 2011 Cricket World Cup Final.
Pandya, who sustained an ankle injury during the match against Bangladesh on October 19 in Pune, has been diligently recovering at the National Cricket Academy in Bengaluru. Although his participation in the Sri Lanka match remains uncertain, Pandya’s return would undoubtedly boost the Indian team, which has already triumphed in each of their first six World Cup matches.
The absence of Pandya led to strategic changes in the playing XI, with Mohammed Shami and Suryakumar Yadav stepping in for the matches against England and New Zealand. Despite his limited opportunities with the bat, Pandya has made a significant impact, securing five wickets at an impressive average of 22.60 in four games while contributing 11 runs in the tournament.
While India has performed exceptionally well in the tournament so far, it is unlikely that Pandya will be rushed back into the side, especially considering their imminent clash against Sri Lanka on November 2. With their eyes set on the semifinals, India’s cautious approach reflects their commitment to maintaining their winning streak. Their next challenge awaits them against South Africa in Kolkata on November 5 following the pivotal encounter against Sri Lanka.
