Karnataka’s lanky pacer Prasidh Krishna, who returned from an injury along with Jasprit Bumrah some time ago, has been named as the replacement in his place – but no prizes for guessing that he will be further substitute should any of the in-form pace trio break down for the rest of the campaign.
It must have been difficult to be in the shoes of Pandya, who was plagued by injuries at critical moments in his career. There was talk that his presence in the first four matches to provide the much-needed balance in India’s starting XI (as a third pacer and a number six who could adapt to the needs of the situation) could be: like Ben Stokes leaving for England four years ago, in 2023. It was valuable for Rohit Sharma & Co.
“It’s hard to digest the fact that I will miss the rest of the World Cup. I will be with my team spirit and cheering on them on every ball of every match. Thank you for all your wishes, the love and support has been incredible. This team is special and I am sure we will make everyone proud. Love, always HP, ” a heartbroken Pandya posted on X.
The Indian team, which does not want to step off the pedal at this stage, has given enough signals that they will not attempt to make changes to the template.
”The truth is we don’t have a sixth bowler, but we do have a wrong-footed innings threat (Virat Kohli) waiting to try,” head coach Rahul Dravid said with a wry sense of humor at the media conference. ”Along with Rohit, we also have Surya, who can move his arm a few times,” he added.
news source (www.nationalheraldindia.com)
