The permutations and combinations for Team India continues ahead of the ICC T20 World Cup. The all-rounder’s spot is yet to be fixed. It is currently a tussle between Hardik Pandya and Shivam Dube. The directive from the BCCI selectors is clear, Hardik Pandya has to bowl in order to finalise his spot in the team.
India’s captain Rohit Sharma met with Rahul Dravid and Ajit Agarkar to discuss about the team. One of the main agendas in the meeting was the selection of Hardik Pandya. Out of the 6 matches that he has played, Pandya was bowled in 4 of them. He has managed to bag just 3 wickets and has leaked runs in a flurry.
Now this is a concern. With a high economy rate of 12 and now bowling, the message is clear. Hardik Pandya has to bowl in order to get selected. Even with the bat, Hardik has been sub par. The new Mumbai Indians skipper managed to amass just 131 runs so far.
Hardik Pandya or Shivam Dube?
Now, here lies the situation. If batting is considered, Shivam Dube is much ahead of Pandya. The Chennai Super Kings batter has lighted up IPL 2024 with his thunderous batting. But he has only featured for CSK as an impact player. Be it the spinners or the pacers, Dube has shown no fear in slamming the ball out of the park.
Hardik Pandya despite his poor form is a much complete player. He brings the stability and balance in the team and thus it will be a big decision for the BCCI Selection Committee to make the call.