Former India bowler Praveen Kumar launched a scathing attack on the Indian all-rounder Hardik Pandya and BCCI over his decision to skip domestic cricket. Hardik made his return to cricket after a long ankle injury lay-off during the DY Patil T20 Cup, but he didn’t play in the Ranji Trophy.
It is being said that Hardik’s body is not yet ready to cope with red-ball cricket’s demand, so he was not to play in the Ranji Trophy 2024.
However, the Mumbai Indians (MI) captain was given a central contract in the ‘A’ category despite not playing first-class cricket and BCCI’s demand for the same.
Aftthisich, BCCI was slammed by many for having double standards. Now, Praveen questioned why BCCI is giving special treatment to Hardik.
Praveen Kumar said on Shubhankar Mishra's YouTube channel: “Hardik Pandya kya chaand se utar ke aaya hai? (Has Hardik Pandya descended from the moon? He has to play too. Why are there different rules for him? The BCCI should threaten him.”
He added, “Why would you play just the domestic T20 tournament (DY Patil)? Play all three formats. Or have you played 60-70 Test matches that you will just play T20. The country needs you.”
Seeking clarity on Hardik’s Test future, the former Indian pacer noted: “Give it in writing that I am not available for Tests. Neither are you committing from it, nor are you withdrawing entirely. The BCCI should also be questioned. You can't twist and mould rules for one player.”
He signed off by saying, “But I feel that there must have been a discussion. If they think Hardik is an asset in T20 and we don't want his fitness to be affected. Then it's fine. Either that or a player should be informed that he is only going to be considered for T20s and ODIs but not for Tests. That way, a player is satisfied knowing about his future.”
(With ANI Inputs)
