PBKS vs GT, IPL 2023: Why Hardik Pandya not bowling in the Match

Gujarat Titans are taking on Punjab Kings at the IS Bindra Stadium in Mohali on Thursday (April 13). The Titans won the toss and have chosen to field first.

Gujarat Titans captain Hardik Pandya has returned to the team after missing the last game with illness. Pandya is leading the team and so far his troops have done well with the ball as Punjab have found things difficult in the middle.

Mohammed Shami took the wicket of Prabhsimran Singh in the very first over, while Ireland bowler Joshua Little gave Punjab a significant blow with the prized wicket of the PBKS skipper Shikhar Dhawan.

But so far, the Titans skipper Hardik Pandya hasn't bowled a single over. Pandya, who bowled in the first couple of matches, has so far just limited himself with the captaincy duties. Fans on social media have raised questions regarding the fitness of the player as a probable explanation for him not bowling.

But what is the exact reason for Pandya not giving it a go with the ball? It looks the like the reason is bifurcated.

Pandya has Fitness Issues

Pandya's fitness has been a concern for a long time as the Titans skipper has carried niggles and injuries which have hampered his bowling. Hence it can be a precaution from the GT management to preserve their captain's stress.

There is also a strong guideline from BCCI to manage the stress factor of the Indian players, especially with the ODI World Cup later this year. Hence that can be a probable reason for Pandya's lack of bowling in the tournament.

GT have too many bowlers

This is also a valid reason for Hardik's lack of rolling the arms. Gujarat Titans are going with four pacers in the match. Mohammed Shami, Alzarri Joseph and Joshua Little have been their regular individuals in the bowling unit, but they added Mohit Sharma to the list as well on Thursday.

With four quality pacers already in the squad, the need for Hardik to bowl is significantly reduced.