Hardik Pandya was injured and was given a break, I expect him to bowl more in coming times: Sourav Ganguly

Hardik Pandya’s fitness issues have been a matter of concern for Indian cricket since a while. The Baroda-born all-rounder has proved his potential at the highest level and his numbers are also impressive. However, a stubborn back injury has troubled him big time in the last couple of years. Pandya hasn’t been able to bowl lately and the same raised questions over his selection in national team.

Post the T20 World Cup 2021, Pandya took a break from cricket and dedicated his entire focus on rehab. He’s also determined to make a full-fledged comeback as an all-rounder. Even, BCCI president Sourav Ganguly also wants to see Pandya giving his services in all three departments. On being asked about Pandya’s future, Ganguly said the all-rounder has been given time to recover completely.

Hardik Pandya’s form and fitness will be checked by selectors: Sourav Ganguly

“Hardik was injured and a break was given to him to completely recover, so that he can continue to serve Indian cricket for a long period of time. I believe I will see him play some Ranji Trophy to start with,” Ganguly was quoted as saying by NDTV. The former Indian captain also said Pandya is expected to bowl a lot more in the coming times.

“I expect him to bowl a lot more overs and his body will get stronger. Also he is now captain of Ahmedabad in IPL and that will be a platform where his form and fitness will be checked by selectors. Accordingly, they will take a call,” he added.

Meanwhile, the all-rounder had recently stated that he’s “feeling strong” and wants to comeback as an all-rounder. “I want to play as an all-rounder. If something goes bad, then I don’t know but my preparations are all about playing as an all-rounder. I am feeling good, feeling strong and eventually, the time will say what happens,” Pandya said on Backstage with Boria.

Meanwhile, a new challenge is lying ahead of Pandya as he’s lead the new Ahmedabad team in IPL 2022. Speaking of his leadership strategies, Pandya said: “My way of leadership is to set examples, to set culture, to set the attitude which the team wants to play with. So, my way of leadership is taking the team along. So, my philosophy isn’t too complicated.”