BCCI Sets Strict Hardik Pandya T20 World Cup Selection Condition in Rohit Sharma Meeting

Hardik Pandya has not been able to perform well with the bat, having scored only 131 runs in 6 matches at an average of 26.20 this season. Furthermore, his bowling has been inconsistent, as he has scarcely bowled in the last 4 matches and has been ineffective when he has bowled, leading to the opponents capitalizing on his bowling. There is significant pressure on Pandya to improve his bowling performance, as he has reportedly been instructed by the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) selection committee to bowl regularly if he wants to secure a place in India’s T20 World Cup 2024 squad.

The selectors have emphasized the need for Pandya to make a positive impact with his bowling. However, his bowling statistics this season have not been promising, with high runs conceded in different phases of the game, raising concerns about his effectiveness as a bowler. The selectors have also expressed dissatisfaction with the utilization of Rahul Dube, highlighting that although he is an all-rounder, he has not been given opportunities to showcase his bowling skills while playing for Chennai Super Kings (CSK) this season.

However, Dube’s performance as a power-hitter, particularly against spinners, has earned praise. If Dube is selected for the T20 World Cup, it is anticipated that he will be utilized as a part-time bowler rather than fulfilling the role of a full all-rounder capable of providing the team with four overs.