Simon Doull, the former New Zealand fast bowler, has stated that Hardik Pandya, the talented all-rounder and captain of Mumbai Indians, might be grappling with an injury that he’s hesitant to acknowledge.
Doull’s explosive statement comes after Pandya’s bowling performances in the ongoing IPL season have been inconsistent. Despite starting as an opening bowler for MI in the first two matches and only managing to take one wicket, the 30-year-old hasn’t been seen bowling much in subsequent games.
In the recent match against Royal Challengers Bangalore, Pandya only bowled for one over before stopping. Doull voiced his suspicion, hinting that something might be wrong with Pandya. He shared his gut feeling that Pandya could possibly be nursing an injury.
“You go out and make a statement by opening the bowling in-game no. 1, and suddenly, you are not required. He’s injured. I’m telling you there is something wrong with him. He is not admitting it. But there is something wrong with him for sure. That is my gut feeling,” Doull said on Cricbuzz.
When asked about his decision not to bowl in the match against Delhi Capitals, Hardik was questioned. In response, the Mumbai Indians captain mentioned that he would wait for the ‘right moment’ to bowl. He expressed his willingness to bowl when the timing felt appropriate.
“All good will be bowling at the right time. Had it covered, so didn’t need to roll my arm over,” Hardik said earlier during a post-match interview.
Doull’s revelation couldn’t have come at a more crucial time, just before Mumbai Indians gear up for their much-anticipated showdown against their eternal rivals, the Chennai Super Kings. Pandya’s fitness status holds the key to the outcome of the match, given Mumbai’s quest to recover from a shaky start in the season, despite not having their skipper bowl.
As the T20 World Cup 2024 approaches, any lingering injury concerns for Pandya could seriously hamper his preparations. Despite Mumbai Indians’ initial struggle with three consecutive losses, they’ve managed to turn the tide with consecutive victories.
Mumbai Indians’ upcoming clash against Chennai Super Kings at their home ground, the Wankhede Stadium, on April 14th, has fans on the edge of their seats, eagerly anticipating yet another chapter in this iconic rivalry.
