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There has been a big question mark over Hardik Pandya’s fitness since India’s squad for T20 World Cup was announced. India have been missing their sixth bowler as Pandya has not been able to bowl due to lower back issues. In the first match against Pakistan, there were more questions raised as Pandya injured his shoulder and was taken for scans. However, skipper Virat Kohli will breathe a sigh of relief ahead of crucial clash against New Zealand on October 31 as Pandya was seen bowling in the nets, as show on Star Sports during innings break of Namibia vs Scotland clash.
Pandya has not bowled a single over in competitive cricket since July 2021. The Baroda all-rounder did not bowl in the second phase of Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021. He even warmed the benches for a few matches due to fitness issues.
"The back is fine, it was jittery, but I won't be bowling for now. I want to be able to bowl eventually, closer to the knockouts. The professionals and I both have to take the call about when I can have a bowl," the 28-year-old told the broadcasters before India’s T20 World Cup opener on October 24.
Indian skipper Virat Kohli and vice captain Rohit Sharma had also revealed that Pandya will bowl at some point in the tournament.
Pandya contributing with a few overs in the middle will provide much-needed balance to the squad. It will give Kohli an option if one of the five main bowlers is having a bad day at the office.
