WC 2023: Hardik Pandya’s World Cup Dream Shattered by Ligament Injury, Ruled Out of ICC ODI World Cup 2023

Kolkata, 4th November 2023: In a significant blow to the Indian cricket team, star all-rounder Hardik Pandya has been forced to withdraw from the ICC ODI World Cup 2023 due to a ligament injury. While the Indian team remained optimistic about Hardik’s potential return later in the tournament, his worst fears have materialized, and he will no longer participate. The injury occurred during the India versus Bangladesh match on the 19th of October at the Maharashtra Cricket Association Stadium in Pune.

Despite maintaining a perfect record with seven wins in seven games in the tournament, the absence of Hardik Pandya is a significant setback for India as he plays a vital role in balancing the team.

Pandya sustained the ankle injury while bowling during the match against Bangladesh, and it has been confirmed that the 30-year-old cricketer has not recovered sufficiently to continue competing in the tournament. In response, India has announced Prasiddh Krishna as his replacement. Krishna, who has 19 ODI appearances for India, was last seen at the international level in a match against Australia just before the World Cup, where he claimed David Warner’s wicket.

While Prasiddh Krishna is a capable backup, the Indian team will most probably continue with the combination of Mohammed Shami and Suryakumar Yadav, which has provided balance and effectiveness. Shami, in particular, has been in outstanding form, achieving two 5-wicket hauls in the tournament.

Expressing his grief over the injury, Hardik Pandya took to social media, stating, “Tough to digest the fact that I will miss out on the remaining part of the World Cup. I’ll be with the team, in spirit, cheering them on every ball of every game. Thanks for all the wishes, the love, and the support has been incredible. This team is special and I’m sure we’ll make everyone proud. Love, always, HP ❤️??.”

Prasiddh Krishna will be available for the upcoming game against South Africa scheduled for the 5th of November. The match will also determine the table topper after the clash.