The BCCI has spared no cricketer in its warning over the central contract and this includes Hardik Pandya as well. The all-rounder has been asked to play domestic white-ball cricket tournaments. If he does not, the BCCI has threatened to terminate his contract. Pandya gained a Grade A contract for the year 2024-25.
Hardik Pandya given domestic cricket ultimatum
As per Indian Express, a BCCI official reveals details of the board’s discussion with the star. The source says that BCCI’s medical team maintain that Hardik Pandya will not be able to bowl in red-ball cricket and hence Ranji Trophy is ruled out. He must, however, play domestic white-ball tournaments when there are no international commitments overlapping.
“We have had discussions with Pandya, who has been told to play domestic white-ball tournaments when he is available. At this stage, according to the assessment of the BCCI’s medical team, he is not in a position to bowl in red-ball tournaments. So playing Ranji Trophy is out of the equation for Pandya. But he has to play other white-ball tournaments if there are no India commitments. If not, he will miss out on a contract,” the official says.
When will Hardik Pandya play domestic cricket next?
Despite Hardik Pandya making his return at the DY Patil T20 tournament, a domestic game for the star is very far away. The Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy and the Vijay Hazare Trophy will only take place in October-December. With no white-ball commitments for India at that period, Pandya will be expected to participate in the tourneys, provided he remains fit.
What it means for vice-captain Hardik Pandya?
Pandya is the white-ball vice-captain for India in ODIs and T20Is. With the T20 World Cup 2024 fast approaching, it will be essential for Pandya to prove his mettle on the field. More so because he is most likely to succeed Rohit Sharma as the white-ball skipper.
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