“Longish layoff…”: BCCI chief selector Ajit Agarkar takes a dig at aggressive Hardik Pandya ahead of the T20 World Cup. cricket news

Chief selector Ajit Agarkar on Wednesday defended the much-criticized selection of Hardik Pandya in India’s T20 World Cup squad, saying, “There is no substitute for what the flamboyant all-rounder can do when he is fit apart from providing balance to the team.” Is.” Hardik, who is facing a very tough IPL season as the captain of Mumbai Indians, was not only selected in the Indian team for the upcoming showpiece, but was also made the vice-captain of the team, thereby raising eyebrows in the cricket world. Many people were surprised.

Hardik last featured in an international match for India during the ODI World Cup match against Bangladesh in October 2023.

“There was no discussion on vice-captaincy. He has played all the games so far for Mumbai Indians. We have a month and a bit to go before his first game. As long as he is fit, there is no limit to what he can do.” Not an option.” Agarkar told reporters when asked about the selection of the all-rounder.

“He is coming after a long break. We are hoping that he is working on it. Especially the way he bowls, he will give a lot of balance and options to (captain) Rohit.”

Hardik recovered from an ankle injury just ahead of IPL 2024 and was named captain of the five-time champions in place of Rohit – a decision that was widely criticized.

Agarkar also said that KL Rahul missed out on a place in India’s T20 World Cup squad because they were looking for “people” who can bat in the middle, leading to the inclusion of Sanju Samson as the team’s second wicketkeeper. The path was cleared.

“KL is a brilliant player, we all know that. We were looking for players who can bat in the middle and KL at the top. We think Sanju has the ability to come down the order. Rishabh will bat at number five. Have been.” “Two incredible players were thinking the same thing,” Agarkar said.

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