Hardik Pandya failed to recover in time from the ankle injury.
The all-rounder picked up the injury while fielding during India’s match against Bangladesh in Pune on October 19. Subsequently, he checked into the National Cricket Academy (NCA) in Bangalore for rehabilitation and missed out on the last three games against New Zealand, England and Sri Lanka.
However, Hardik failed to recover in time to be a part of the remaining campaign. No wonder, the 30-year-old was left gutted after his World Cup dream got over.
Taking to Instagram, Hardik Pandya shared his first reaction on him being ruled out of the showpiece tournament.
“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 ❤️????????,” Hardik wrote.
Fast bowler Prasidh Krishna, who recently returned to action after a year-long injury hiatus, has been approved as Pandya's replacement by the tournament's Event Technical Committee.
Krishna is available for selection for Sunday’s match against South Africa at the Eden Gardens in Kolkata.
Having won their seven games, Rohit Sharma’s men are currently leading the 10-team points table with 14 points.