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[Saba Sports News] According to reports, India captain Rohit Sharma, head coach Rahul Dravid, and chief selector Ajit Agarkar recently convened in Mumbai to discuss squad selection for the upcoming T20 World Cup. A key topic of their deliberation reportedly centered on Hardik Pandya’s place in the team, with his bowling fitness emerging as a major concern.
While the final 15-man squad won’t be solidified until the first week of May, media outlets like The Indian Express report that Pandya’s bowling struggles have cast doubt on his World Cup participation.
Reports indicate that Pandya’s bowling has lacked consistency and effectiveness this IPL season. He has only bowled his full quota of overs once for Mumbai Indians in the first six matches and has even sat out bowling entirely in some encounters.
While Pandya remains a valuable asset with his batting prowess, the Indian team management reportedly views his all-rounder skillset – including his pace bowling – as crucial. India has other talented batsmen, but finding a seam-bowling all-rounder like Pandya might prove challenging.
The reports suggest that for Pandya to secure his spot in the World Cup squad, a significant improvement in his bowling performance during the remaining IPL matches is essential. He needs to demonstrate both fitness and the ability to bowl consistently effective spells.
This development puts pressure on Pandya to deliver in the upcoming IPL matches. Only time will tell if he can overcome these concerns and secure his place in India’s T20 World Cup squad.