Hardik Pandya's struggle with fitness is believed to be a primary reason why Suryakumar Yadav was chosen as India's T20I captain instead. Despite Hardik's official claim that personal matters kept him out of the upcoming Sri Lanka ODI series, the selection committee is reportedly uneasy about his health and bowling capacity with the Champions Trophy looming. Ravi Shastri agrees with these concerns, noting that it is now up to Hardik to take charge of his recovery and future career path.
Hardik Pandya’s fitness was confirmed as one of the key reasons for his loss to Suryakumar Yadav for the position of India’s T20I captain. Although he pulled out of the ODI series against Sri Lanka next month for personal reasons, selectors are allegedly concerned about his health, particularly his bowling, with the Champions Trophy coming up. Former India coach Ravi Shastri echoed similar concerns but believes the ball is now in Hardik’s court, as he discussed his future plans following the T20I captaincy snub.
In a recent piece for The ICC Review, Ravi Shastri discussed his worries regarding Hardik's fitness from a bowling perspective, while also giving the all-rounder some strategic advice on how to reclaim his spot in the ODI squad for the upcoming Champions Trophy.
Shastri believes the key to a successful comeback is staying active on the field. He advised Hardik to take every available opportunity to play T20I cricket to build up his match fitness. Once he reaches a level where he feels strong and capable, Shastri noted that he should naturally be reintegrated into the one-day team.
The critical factor, however, remains the bowling. Shastri pointed out that if a player can only bowl three overs in a game where ten are required, it disrupts the team's tactical equilibrium. He asserted that if Hardik can consistently deliver 8 to 10 overs a match without compromising his batting, he will undoubtedly be a staple of the ODI team.
Ultimately, Shastri feels the decision rests with Hardik, as the player knows his physical limits better than anyone else. He expressed confidence that Hardik's previous success and his ability to deliver under pressure during the World Cup will serve as the necessary motivation to get back on track.