'He's an important player for us'- Rohit Sharma on Pandya's exclusion
Hardik Pandya in action (PC: Twitter)
Hardik Pandya, who played a vital role in India's victory against arch-rivals Pakistan, was dropped for today's clash against Hong Kong
India, fresh off from a nail biting victory against Pakistan will be looking forward to winning their clash against Hong Kong to qualify for the Super four stage in the Asia Cup 2022. One of the key factors behind India's victory in the first match, Hardik Pandya, who was at his all-round best, was rested for the clash against Hong Kong on 31 August.
Hong Kong won the toss and chose to field first. India brought in one change - Hardik Pandya making way for Rishabh Pant in the playing eleven. Pandya was at his all-round best in the previous match, taking 3-25 off his four overs at an impressive economy of 6.25.
With the bat in hand, he helped India out of the hole they found themselves in after losing wickets at regular intervals. He made 33 off just 17 deliveries, hitting four boundaries and one six - the hit that gave India one of their finest victories against Pakistan.
It was an easy decision to rest Hardik - Rohit Sharma
Skipper Sharma said it was an easy decision to rest Hardik for the match. The decision was made keeping in mind to keep the all rounder fresh for crucial fixtures coming ahead. Since his return, The IPL 2022 Gujarat Lions skipper has been in tremendous form with both bat and ball in hand.
"Hardik is rested considering how important he is to us. Rishabh Pant is in. Hardik is rested considering how important he is to us. Rishabh Pant is in," Rohit said at the toss.
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