India all-rounder Hardik Pandya has been reportedly ruled out of the five-match T20I series against Australia later this month. During the ODI World Cup 2023 match against Bangladesh, he injured his ankle. After waiting for a few games, the medical team ruled out of the ongoing tournament. The team announced Prasidh Krishna as a replacement and he is yet to play a game.
Meanwhile, after the showpiece event, the Men In Blue will play a five-match T20I series against Australia. This series will start on November 23, four days after the ODI World Cup. A lot of the players from the ongoing tournament are set to be rested. It is said that the players who played in the Asian Games 2023 Gold Medal campaign might get selected for the series as reported by ESPNcricinfo.
Who will lead the team in Hardik Pandya’s absence?
The team for the bilateral series is expected to be announced on November 15, the same day India locks horns with New Zealand. With Pandya set to miss the series, Ruturaj Gaikwad might do the leadership job during the long series. Talking about the seriousness of the all-rounder’s injury, the medical team is yet to clear him from playing any match.
On the other hand, India head coach Rahul Dravid’s contract will be under consideration after the tournament. His two-year stint is about to end and will be interesting to see whether it gets renewed or not. Meanwhile, one thing is certain that even if he gets an extension, VVS Laxman will coach the team for the series.
