[Pictures] “Hard work doesn’t go unnoticed” – Hardik Pandya shares his fitness journey from 2023 ODI World Cup to 2024 T20 World Cup
Hardik Pandya has shared his fitness journey from the 2023 ODI World Cup to the 2024 T20 World Cup. Notably, the Baroda all-rounder was ruled out mid-way from the 2023 ICC event after an ankle injury.
However, the 30-year-old recovered from his injury and led Mumbai Indians (MI) in the 2024 Indian Premier League (IPL) before playing a big role in India’s win in the 2024 T20 World Cup.
In the tournament, Hardik bagged 11 wickets in eight games and chipped in with 144 runs at a strike rate of 151.57. Notably, Hardik took three wickets in the final against South Africa. He defended 16 runs in the final over and took the prized scalp of David Miller.
Sharing the two pictures of his fitness journey on Instagram, Hardik Pandya wrote:
“Was a difficult journey after the freak 2023 WC injury but well worth the effort with the T20 WC win. The results come as long as you put in the effort. Hard work doesn’t go unnoticed. Let’s all try our best and work on our fitness.”
Not Hardik Pandya, Suryakumar Yadav front-runner to replace Rohit Sharma as India’s T20I captain - Reports
Hardik Pandya’s fitness-related post came amid reports that Suryakumar Yadav will replace Rohit Sharma as India’s T20I captain. Notably, Hardik had served as Rohit’s deputy at the 2024 T20 World Cup.
Hardik is a more experienced captain than Suryakumar. The all-rounder has led India in three ODIs and 16 T20Is. He has also led Gujarat Titans (GT) and Mumbai Indians (MI) in IPL. Meanwhile, Suryakumar has led the Men in Blue in seven T20Is, leading India to a 4-1 win against Australia and a 1-1 tie in South Africa.
As per ESPNCricinfo, Hardik is ignored for the captaincy role due to fitness concerns and workload management.
The Ajit Agarkar-led selection committee will reportedly meet on Thursday, July 18, to announce India’s squads for the upcoming three T20Is and as many ODIs in Sri Lanka. The white-ball series will also begin Gautam Gambhir’s coaching era.