In a major setback, Hardik Pandya has been ruled out of the India vs Australia T20 series (IND vs AUS T20 series). The series begins on Nov 23, four days after the Cricket World Cup final. As selectors have been waiting for an update on the premier all-rounder, the squad will likely be announced on Thursday, November 16.
BCCI Medical team advised Hardik Pandya a 6-8 weeks of rest after suffering a ligament tear during Cricket World Cup league match against Bangladesh on October 19. As the swelling did not subside, BCCI brought in Prasidh Krishna as the replacement, ruling Hardik Pandya out of the WC. Hardik will aim to make a comeback in the white-ball series against South Africa in December.
Who will lead India in IND vs AUS T20?
The selectors were optimistic about Hardik’s recovery but he is yet to be fully fit. Hence, Ruturaj Gaikwad is frontrunner to lead India as majority of the Cricket World Cup squad will get a break. The likes of Suryakumar Yadav, Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli will also get a rest. Prasidh Krishna is all set to return to the squad for IND vs AUS T20 series.
The squad will be similar to the Asian Games 2023 squad that won a gold medal in China.
VVS Laxman to coach India
With Rahul Dravid and his coaching staff also getting a break, NCA chief VVS Laxman will be the head coach for the five-match IND vs AUS T20 series.
Sitanshu Kotak and Sairaj Bahutule will be his associates during the series.
Rahul Dravid will be back for the South Africa tour if he agrees to a contract extension following Cricket World Cup. Dravid’s contract ends with the WC.
