The BCCI chief selector Chetan Sharma made it clear that Hardik Pandya will be considered for the selection only when he proves his fitness in domestic cricket. He also doesn’t know why the 28-year old is not featuring in the Ranji Trophy.
Hardik Pandya hasn’t played any competitive cricket since the T20 World Cup last year in November. He announced that he would make a return only in IPL 2021 which is likely to begin in the last week of March.
Hardik Pandya hasn’t played any competitive cricket since the T20 World Cup 2021
The BCCI announced the squads for the T20I and Test series against Sri Lanka starting on February 24. When he was constantly asked about Hardik Pandya’s status, Chetan Sharma furiously responded that the all-rounder needs to prove his fitness first.
“You can ask Hardik why he is not playing Ranji Trophy. We are seeing those who are playing Ranji Trophy and those who are performing. We are happy to see players playing Ranji Trophy and performing,” Chetan Sharma spoke in the press conference.
“Look, definitely Hardik was a very important part of the Indian team, (But) after the injuries, we will now say that if he is 100 percent fit, ready to go and also if he is bowling and match fitness and all, we will consider him immediately,” he added.
“Look, the most important thing is, like I said before, you can speak to him (Hardik), you would be having his (mobile) number,” Chetan Sharma said.
He further stated that the all-rounder hasn’t been forgotten for his contribution and he is definitely in India’s scheme of things but he needs to be 100% fit to represent India again.
“Number two, you are not a member of the selection committee to tell that whether he will be selected or not. The five selection committee members are there with me. Who gets selected and who does not, that we will decide, not you. But what he has to do, who will play what, let things come; you support a kid, don’t go behind him,” he added.
“What Hardik has done for the country is not a thing which can be forgotten in a minute, support him.” Chetan Sharma concluded.
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