Indian ODI captain Shubman Gill acknowledged that Hardik Pandya’s prolonged injury layoff has impacted the team’s tactical balance, emphasizing that the lower-middle order will be fully “sorted” once the star all-rounder makes his international return.
Speaking to media personnel on the eve of the first ODI against New Zealand in Auckland, Gill highlighted Pandya’s rare skill set as a genuine seam-bowling all-rounder, noting that very few players in world cricket offer comparable versatility.
Impact on Team Balance and Lower Order
Addressing concerns over India’s middle and lower-order combinations, Gill explained how Pandya’s presence provides essential balance to the XI:
“If Hardik Pandya comes into the team, then our number seven and number eight positions will also be sorted. We will look like a much more balanced team in terms of batting,” Gill stated.
Unmatched All-Round Skillset and Injury Status
Pandya, who typically bats at No. 6 or No. 7, has been sidelined since the conclusion of the Indian Premier League (IPL) due to recurring fitness issues. His planned competitive return via the India A squad was recently delayed after he experienced a shin niggle during training.
- Phase-Wise Bowling Value: “Having a fast-bowling all-rounder who can bowl in every phase of the game—with the new ball, in the middle overs, and at the death—along with the kind of batting he offers, is extremely valuable,” Gill remarked, calling Pandya’s prolonged absence “very unfortunate.”
- Domestic Cricket Plan Before Comeback: Gill confirmed he remains in constant communication with the 32-year-old all-rounder, expecting him to undergo a domestic match-fitness test before returning to the national squad. “Hopefully, he will be fit soon, play some domestic cricket, and then we will see him back in the side,” the Indian captain added.
