CWC 2023: Hardik Pandya likely to return: Which player will make way?

CWC 2023: India’s star all-rounder Hardik Pandya is expected to make a comeback from injury in the upcoming ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup 2023 matches. Pandya suffered an ankle injury in India’s match against Bangladesh on October 19, but he is now on the road to recovery and is expected to rejoin the squad in Mumbai ahead of their match against Sri Lanka on November 2.

Pandya’s return is a major boost for India, as he is one of the most important players in the team. He is a versatile all-rounder who can bat, bowl, and field to a high standard. His presence in the team will give India much-needed balance and depth.

However, Pandya’s return also poses a selection dilemma for the Indian team management. Which player will make way for him in the playing XI?

One option is to drop one of the batsmen. India has a strong batting line-up, and they have been able to score big totals even in Pandya’s absence. However, Pandya’s batting ability at number six is a major asset, and he can also provide acceleration in the death overs.

Also Read: CWC 2023: Pakistan’s Chances for World Cup Semi-Finals After Win Over Bangladesh:

Another option is to drop one of the bowlers. India has a good bowling attack, but they have missed Pandya’s medium pace bowling. However, it is difficult to drop any of the bowlers, as they have all been performing well.

Ultimately, the decision of who to drop for Pandya will depend on the conditions and the opposition. However, it is a good problem for the Indian team management to have, as it shows that they have a strong squad with plenty of depth.

So, who will make way for Pandya in the playing XI? Here are a few possibilities:

• Shreyas Iyer: Iyer has been struggling for form in the tournament, scoring just 60 runs in four matches. He could be the one to make way for Pandya, especially if the team decides to play with two all-rounders.
• Deepak Hooda: Hooda has been a good all-rounder for India in recent months. However, he is primarily a batter, and Pandya’s return will give India more balance in the team.
• Shardul Thakur: Thakur is a good fast bowler, but he has not been able to pick up wickets consistently in the tournament. He could be the one to miss out if India decides to play with three seamers.

Ultimately, the decision of who to make way for Pandya will be made by the team management, based on the conditions and the opposition. However, it is clear that Pandya’s return will be a big boost for India, and it will be interesting to see how the team management fits him into the playing XI.

My opinion

I think that Shreyas Iyer is the most likely player to make way for Hardik Pandya in India’s World Cup XI. Iyer has been struggling for form in the tournament, and Pandya is a more versatile player who can both bat and bowl. Additionally, Pandya’s return will give India more balance in the team, as they will have two all-rounders in the playing XI.

DISCLAIMER: This team is based on the understanding, analysis, and instinct of the author. While selecting your team, consider the points mentioned and make your own decision.