‘Tough to digest’ - Hardik Pandya pens heartfelt note after ankle injury ends his World Cup run

In a huge blow for the Indian team, star all-rounder Hardik Pandya has been ruled out of the ODI World Cup 2023 with an ankle injury. Trying to stop the ball with his feel against Bangladesh on October 19, Hardik twisted his left ankle and has not featured for the hosts since.

The 30-year-old took to social media and wrote a heartfelt message, thanking his fans for always showing him support after the official announcement of his exit from the remainder of the tournament.

“Tough to digest the fact that I will miss out on the remaining part of the World Cup. I'll be with the team, in spirit, cheering them on every ball of every game. Thanks for all the wishes, the love, and the support has been incredible. This team is special and I'm sure we'll make everyone proud. Love, always, HP,” Hardik Pandya tweeted. 

Prasidh Krishna called in as replacement for Hardik Pandya

Following the injury to Hardik, the Indian team announced pacer Prasidh Krishna as the all-rounder’s replacement. Krishna was approved by the tournament's Event Technical Committee on Saturday, November 4 and is available for selection.

The Men in Blue take on the in-form South Africa for their next game at the ODI World Cup 2023. Both sides will take centre stage at the Eden Gardens in Kolkata in the 37th game of the tournament on Sunday, November 5. Both sides have played seven games in the competition so far, where India are unbeaten, and the Proteas have lost just one match.