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'Unko Bahar Bithaiye': Harbhajan's Makes Bold Advice After Hardik Pandya's Exclusion

image-lnzojrcnHardik couldn't even bowl an over in Pune (AP Photo) 

As India prepares to face off against an undefeated Blackcaps side this Sunday, their preparations have now hit a roadblock as their marquee all-rounder Hardik Pandya has been ruled out of the upcoming fixture. Hardik sustained an ankle injury whilst bowling in the last match against Bangladesh. The injury took place when he attempted to stop the ball that was hit straight back past him by planting his right foot across, thus resulting in a twist in his ankle.

The 30-year-old appeared to be in a great amount of discomfort and was subsequently escorted off the field. In the wake of recent developments, BCCI stated that Hardik will be under medical observation at the NCA in Bengaluru and will not be traveling with the team to Dharamshala for the New Zealand clash. 

However, it was later revealed that the extent of his injury was not that serious and the Indian team management is hoping to get him back before the England match in Lucknow on the 29th of this month.

The absence of Hardik Pandya ahead of their crucial encounter will serve as a big blow for team India. Hardik’s inclusion in the lineup offers a layer of stability and strengthens their batting depth further. 

Prior to the buildup to the high-octane battle between India and New Zealand, former Indian spinner Harbhajan Singh shares his insights on what changes Rohit Sharma & co. should be looking to make in the absence of Pandya. 

The 43-year-old opines that the Indian skipper will need to make two significant changes. On a seaming friendly track, Bhajji wants to see Mohammed Shami in action along with Suryakumar Yadav batting at number 6.

"It's a big issue for India if Hardik Pandya is not fit. He sets our combination and if he doesn't play then you will have to change it. You can either play Ishan Kishan or Suryakumar Yadav as a pure batter. We are playing Shardul Thakur because of his all-rounder abilities. I think you should bring Mohammed Shami in his place as he can give you solid 10 overs."

So far, India’s World Cup campaign appears to be on the right track. They have functioned well as a unit and have mostly looked untroubled. However, they face a monumental challenge ahead of them as they prepare to take on the Kiwis who have had the upper hand over India in the ICC events for the most part since 2003.