Hardik Pandya Faces Prolonged Absence: Likely to Miss Series Against AUS & SA
Hardik Pandya limps out of the field after an injury [Ap photos]
Indian all-rounder Hardik Pandya is set to be sidelined for an additional two months due to an ankle injury sustained during a World Cup 2023 game against Bangladesh. Attempting to stop a shot, Pandya lost his balance, dragging his right boot and injuring his ankle. Rushed to the National Cricket Academy for rehabilitation, he was subsequently ruled out of the World Cup.
As per the reports from Indian express reveal that Pandya will miss the upcoming T20I series against Australia at home and is likely to be absent for three T20Is and three ODIs in South Africa. The BCCI medical staff advised six to eight weeks of rest for the torn ligament in Pandya's left ankle, but swelling persisted, preventing his return to the tournament. Despite initial optimism, he was replaced by Prasidh Krishna.
The medical team is deliberating on whether Pandya requires surgery. Recent attempts to resume bowling in the nets were halted when he experienced pain in his right ankle after increasing the intensity.
With the India-Australia T20I series starting on November 23 and India's tour of South Africa beginning on December 10, Pandya's absence poses a significant setback for the team. The extent of his recovery and potential surgery will determine when he can rejoin the squad.
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