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Former India international and head coach Ravi Shastri raised concerns over current st ar all-rounder Hardik Pandya's fitness ahead of the Men in Blue's ODI series against Sri Lanka. The Baroda native has been a vital part of the T20I series against the Lankans but wasn't picked for the ODI series which starts on August 3.
Ahead of this tour, Pandya was the Indian vice-captain in the shortest format and deputed Rohit Sharma in the victorious T20 World Cup 2024. But as the squads were announced, the Mumbai Indians captain was listed as a player.
Ravi Shastri raises concerns on Hardik Pandya's bowling fitness in ODIs
Addressing these issues in the latest edition of The ICC Review, Shastri expressed apprehension over Hardik's bowling fitness but offered valuable advice on how he can make a comeback, and even be part of the ODI squad for the Champions Trophy next year.
"I think (it's) very important that he continues to play," Shastri said. "I believe match fitness is very important. So whatever T20I cricket there is, he should play as much as he can. And if he feels strong and fit, then obviously he comes into the side for the one-day game as well."
"But then again, the bowling becomes important. If you have someone coming and bowling just three overs in where you have to bowl 10 in a one-day game, then the balance of the side takes a hit. If you can bowl consistently eight to 10 overs every game and then bat the way he does, I think he'll play in one-day cricket as well," he continued.
