Hardik Pandya Declares Fitness to Bowl, Set for Mumbai Captaincy in IPL
All-rounder Hardik Pandya is ready to resume bowling, a significant development for both his new team Mumbai Indians and the Indian cricket team ahead of the T20 World Cup in June.
Pandya, who underwent surgery for an ankle injury sustained during the 50-over World Cup last October, has regained full fitness, he confirmed at a press conference on Monday. This paves the way for his return to bowling duties, a crucial aspect of his all-rounder skillset.
The 30-year-old has been named the new captain of Mumbai Indians for the upcoming IPL season, starting this Friday in Chennai. This leadership change comes after Rohit Sharma, who led the franchise to five IPL titles, stepped down from the captaincy role.
“Yes, I will be bowling,” Pandya told reporters, dispelling concerns about his injury. “My injury in the World Cup was a freak incident, unrelated to any past issues or my overall fitness.”
READ MORE: Mumbai Indians sign Luke Wood as Behrendorff Replacement
A healthy Pandya is considered India’s primary seam-bowling all-rounder for the T20 World Cup scheduled to be held in the West Indies.
While the captaincy shift at Mumbai surprised many, Pandya downplayed any potential strain on his relationship with Rohit Sharma, who remains the captain of the Indian national team.
“I don’t foresee any awkwardness,” said Pandya. “Having played together for a decade, it will be a positive experience. Throughout my career, I’ve benefited from his leadership, and I know he’ll continue to support me.”
“We haven’t seen each other in a couple of months due to his playing commitments,” Pandya added. “We’ll definitely have a chat upon his arrival.”
In other IPL news, Mumbai Indians signed English fast bowler Luke Wood as a replacement for injured Australian Jason Behrendorff. Additionally, Royal Challengers Bangalore’s star batsman Virat Kohli will return to action after missing India’s recent Test series win against England for personal reasons.
“It’s fantastic to be back playing cricket and starting the IPL season,” Kohli told RCB TV. “There’s always a special excitement returning to Bangalore for the IPL. I’m looking forward to it, and I hope thefans are as well.”
