T20 World Cup: I want to be able to bowl eventually, closer to the knockouts: Hardik Pandya

Bengaluru, Oct. 24: Hardik Pandya’s bowling has been a concern for the Indian team for a while now, and ahead of India’s match against Pakistan, Pandya made it clear that he won’t resume bowling at least until the ICC T20 World Cup close in on the knockout stages.

Speaking ahead of India’s opener, Pandya said, “The back is fine, it was jittery, but I won't be bowling for now. I want to be able to bowl eventually, closer to the knockouts. The professionals and I both have to take the call about when I can have a bowl.”

The all-rounder’s selection in the World Cup squad has been under scrutiny as Hardik has not bowled for a while, but a day before the team's opening match in the tournament, India captain Kohli asserted that he has an important role to play as a finisher.

The skipper who said Hardik who plays a crucial role at No. 6 and it’s not easy to find his replacement, stated Hardik looks fit enough to chip in with a couple of overs but he is likely to regain full fitness as the tournament progresses.

The all-rounder, who plays for Mumbai Indians, did not bowl a single over in the second leg of IPL recently, underwent a back surgery in the United Kingdom in October 2019.

Ahead of the much-anticipated game against Pakistan, he said, "I don't like to get too hyped by the situation, and my family make sure of that too. I stay away from social media because you do get excited and get the vibes.

"It's simple, and we leave emotions out of the way, and keep things professional. We make sure we tick the right boxes, and do the processes right,” signed off Hardik.

Source: PTI