Out-of-favour all-rounder Hardik Pandya has been in and out of Team India due to fitness issues lately. After going through back surgery in 2019, Pandya has struggled to bowl his full quota of overs regularly.
Hardik was last seen in action during the ICC T20 World Cup 2021, wherein he bowled only four overs and failed to claim a wicket. His selection in the showpiece event also drew criticism as many were of the opinion that an unfit cricketer shouldn't be a part of the squad.
Subsequently, the 28-year-old was dropped from the home T20I series against New Zealand in November last year. Moreover, it was also reported that Pandya has asked the selectors to not consider him for selection for time being given that he is focused on working on his bowling fitness.
Notably, he also opted out of the Vijay Hazare Trophy 2021-22 and was not named in the Indian squad for the ODI series against South Africa.
Speaking to journalist Boria Majumdar on his show “Backstage with Boria”, Hardik Pandya recently said that he is feeling good and strong after going through an extensive rehabilitation programme.
“I want to play as an all-rounder. If something goes bad, then I don’t know but my preparations are all about playing as an all-rounder. I am feeling good, feeling strong and eventually, the time will say what happens,” Hardik stated.
Pandya has been appointed Ahmedabad team’s skipper for the upcoming season of the Indian Premier League. He was roped in for INR 15 crore by the new IPL franchise last week.
While Hardik is yet to prove his mettle as a leader, the flamboyant all-rounder said he wants to maintain a comfortable atmosphere in the dressing room.
“My way of leadership is to set examples, to set culture, to set the attitude which the team wants to play with. So, my way of leadership is taking the team along. So, my philosophy isn’t too complicated. You have to make sure the environment is nice and the players are feeling at home and once everyone gets comfortable, they realize their potential,” said Pandya.
Ahmedabad’s two other picks, Rashid Khan and Shubman Gill, cost the franchise INR 15 crore and INR 8 crore respectively.
