Hardik Pandya and Bhuvneshwar Kumar, the senior Indian players of the shorter formats of the game are likely to be dropped ahead of the New Zealand T20 Series. This move is not a surprise considering the lack of form of Bhuvneshwar Kumar. On the other hand, Hardik Pandya and his injuries have always been a concern. Due to this, the cricketer has always been on and off and this doesn’t benefit the team which demands consistency. Here is a look at the process: –
Hardik Pandya is likely to be dropped for New Zealand Series: –
Hardik Pandya, the star all-rounder from Baroda is expected to be dropped from the T20 squad because of his lack of form. Pandya was never in the best of touch in the 2021 Cricket Season. Apart from one inning of 70+ runs in the series against England in an ODI, Hardik perished early in almost every match. The form was not visible while playing in the blue Mumbai Jersey as well. The hard-hitting game that is expected from Hardik’s bat was never visible in full bloom as he wasn’t able to time the slower balls. His weakness against quick bouncers and well-disguised slower balls became visible.
His back injury made sure that Hardik doesn’t bowl a single over throughout the season. This has made his case even weaker. The bright shine of Venkatesh Iyer and Shivam Dube add insult to injury.
Bhuvneshwar Kumar is likely to be dropped for New Zealand Series: –
The next possible omission from the teamsheet for the New Zealand Series is Bhuvneshwar Kumar. Bhuvneshwar Kumar’s form was a big question before the ICC T20 World Cup in UAE and the big question mark remains. His lack of pace and not bowling the 4th -5th stump hasn’t helped him in any way. What makes his case weaker is the presence of Shardul Thakur and Deepak Chahar. Relying on Bhuvneshwar Kumar’s experience he was picked over an in-form, world record-holding Deepak Chahar. Bhuvneshwar Kumar also has had his fair share of injuries and constantly staying off the game has affected his game negatively.
Selection Committee to Look at Fresher Options: –
The Selection Committee of the Indian Cricket Team comprising Chetan Sharma and other BCCI officials will be picking the team for the New Zealand series by the next week. Young pace sensation Umran Malik is expected to make the cut. Prasidh Krishna and Deepak Chahar are likely to get a chance. The batting options include the likes of Ruturaj Gaikwad and Shubhman Gill. The breakthrough performer, Venkatesh Iyer, is also likely to be picked in place of Hardik Pandya.
