The Mumbai Indians (MI) all-rounder Hardik Pandya has not bowled a single ball in IPL 2021. Since Pandya will be joining the Indian squad for the upcoming T20 World Cup 2021 in UAE and Oman, there was a lot of talk about the chances of the all-rounder bowling against ahead of the ICC mega event.

Former BCCI chief selector Saba Karim had earlier asked justification on Hardik’s selection if the cricketer is carrying an injury. But the ex-cricketer has now pointed out that the all-rounder, not bowling might create an imbalance in the Indian team just like it is currently evident in MI.

“Hardik Pandya has been selected in the T20 WC squad to perform the role of a sixth bowler. Hardik,'s not bowling will create an imbalance in the Indian team just as it has created issues for the Mumbai Indians. If he bowls even 2-3 overs in a remaining couple of matches then it will augur well for Team India,” Karim said while speaking with YouTube channel ‘Khelneeti’.

IPL 2021: Hardik Pandya says "will bowl soon, koshish poori hai"

The wicket-keeper batter then had his say on the five-time champions having poor run in IPL 2021 and highlighted that MI cricketers Hardik Pandya, Suryakumar Yadav and Ishan Kishan who are also named in the Indian squad for the upcoming showpiece event have struggled to get going.

“I was hoping that MI players who have been selected in the Indian team will perform and carry their form in the T20 World Cup. Unfortunately, they haven’t been able to do that. But they have few matches to get back in touch but at this point in time their form is the cause of concern for India,” the 53-year-old signed off.

Rohit Sharma-led MI will be facing Sanju Samson’s Rajasthan Royals (RR) in their next IPL 2021 match tonight (5 October) at the Sharjah Cricket Stadium.