Mumbai Indians all-rounder, Hardik Pandya, is doubtful to participate in the team’s next tie against Sunrisers Hyderabad on April 12.
Pandya did not attend the pre-match practice session on the eve of the game, which has raised doubts over his participation.
He suffered an injury during the first game of IPL 2018 when he twisted his ankle.
He was taken off the field after that.
Though, he returned to the field during Chennai Super Kings’s innings and also grabbed three wickets for 24 runs.
His efforts were in vain as Chennai Super Kings snatched a win in the last two overs of the game.
Rohit Sharma, captain of Mumbai Indians, had recently said that Pandya would be fit for the second game.
However, he missed the practice session, which has raised doubts over his participation.
This can also be a precautionary measure by Pandya before the contest against heavyweight Sunrisers Hyderabad.
It will only at the toss time when it will be confirmed whether he will play the game or not?
If ruled out, Pradeep Sangwan might replace Pandya in the playing XI.
The Delhi all-rounder was purchased by the franchise for an amount of Rs 1.50 Crore.
He also possesses the equal quality of contributing in both the departments of the game.
Just like Pandya, he can hit big sixes.
In fact, he also opens the bowling for Delhi.
In the previous season, Delhi went onto clinch Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy title under Sangwan.
He looks the front-runner to replace Pandya in the playing XI.
Meanwhile, Mumbai Indians have suffered another blow as Pat Cummins has been ruled out of IPL 2018.
The franchise spent a huge amount of Rs 5.40 on him.
He is suffering from a back issue which will see him missing this year’s IPL.
The franchise is yet to name a replacement for him.
He was the second player to be ruled out of Mumbai Indians squad.
Earlier, Jason Behrendorf had to withdraw from the league due to back issue.
He was replaced by Mitchell McClenaghan.