In a series of surprising events, star India all-rounder Hardik Pandya has relocated his off-field training base to Bengaluru with an aim of improving his fitness levels. As per a latest report, he has rented accommodation close to the BCCI's Centre of Excellence (COE) and plans to use the facility as his main training base during his time off from the sport.
Why did Hardik choose COE as his primary training base?
The BCCI's Centre of Excellence has been a hub for centrally contracted players, seeking recovery programmes of injuries and fitness assessment. The facility at Bengaluru also accommodates age-group camps and athletes from other sports as well. As per the report, Pandya wants to use it for the left-over part of his playing career.
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As per a latest report by PTI, Pandya decided to move to Bengaluru after finding it very hard to maintain a proper balance between his training sessions and his daily travel from his Lower Parel residence in Mumbai. By living near to the COE, Hardik will have easy access to the best medical, fitness, and cricket-specific resources.
“Hardik has already permanently shifted to Bengaluru. He has rented a property on the outskirts of the city, close to the COE. He will be the first Indian cricketer to make the COE his permanent training base for the remainder of his career," said the BCCI source.
Hardik's absence from Team India
Unfortunately, Hardik had missed India's outgoing white-ball tour of Ireland and England due to a relapsed quadriceps injury. He has spent several months at the COE for the rehabilitation process to regain full fitness levels.
The source further revealed that Pandya considers this move as a plan to prolong his international career, with the star all-rounder targeting another six years in India's white-ball setup. Following the England series, India will prepare to face Zimbabwe in a three-game away T20I series in July, where Pandya can be seen making a comeback.