Why Did Krunal Pandya Drop Brother Hardik For SMAT 2024 Match vs Saurashtra?

Hardik Pandya and Krunal Pandya - (Source:@Johns/X.com)

On Sunday, December 1, Baroda locked horns against Saurashtra in the ongoing Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy. The Krunal Pandya-led side are placed on top of the table with four wins in four games, while Saurashtra are third with three wins in four matches. 

In a significant development, Baroda entered the pitch without their star player, Hardik Pandya, who was not a part of the playing XI. Notably, Krunal decided to rest his brother to look after his workload management. Baroda are sitting on top of the table and can take the liberty to give rest to Hardik, who has been their star performer in the ongoing campaign. 

Soon after the ongoing Border-Gavaskar Trophy, the attention would shift towards the Champions Trophy and India want Hardik to be at 100% fitness for the prestigious fifty-over event. 

How Has Hardik Pandya Fared In Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy 2024?

Before the start of the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy, Hardik had announced that he would feature in the prestigious T20 tournament organised by BCCI under his brother Krunal's leadership. The MI captain has had a brilliant season, as he has amassed 231 runs in four matches. 

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Hardik has averaged 115.50 in SMAT 2024 and maintained a strike rate of 211, which includes two fifty-plus scores and a 47-run knock vs Tripura. He has also contributed with the ball and taken two wickets. 

Saurashtra vs Baroda Match Summary

Talking about the ongoing match, Baroda are heavily missing Hardik Pandya, as Saurashtra, batting first, put 266 runs on the board. In reply, at the time of writing this article, Baroda are struggling with 67/3 with skipper Krunal yet to come to bat.

Krunal was disappointing in his bowling as he gave away 59 runs in his four overs spell. 

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