Hardik suffered an ankle injury during the match against Bangladesh in Pune on Thursday and won’t recover in time for the next match. The team management is understandably not willing to take any chances, especially because Hardik’s all-round skills will be crucial for the hosts deeper into the tournament.
The seam-up all-rounder injured his left ankle while trying to stop a straight drive from Litton Das with his foot in his follow-through. He received on-field treatment and had his ankle taped up by the physio after application of pain-relieving spray, but it did not provide any relief and he had to leave the field.
Virat Kohli came on to bowl the three remaining deliveries to complete the 9th over of Bangladesh innings.
“The all-rounder was taken for scans and is advised rest. He will be under the constant supervision of the BCCI Medical Team,” said the Indian cricket board in a medical update on Hardik’s injury.
“He will not be taking the flight to Dharamsala with the team on 20th October and will now join the team directly in Lucknow where India play England,” the BCCI release added.
On Thursday night, after India’s seven-wicket win over Bangladesh, skipper Rohit Sharma had shared an encouraging update on Hardik’s injury.
“He pulled up a bit sore, but nothing really major to worry. We’ll see how he pulls up tomorrow (Friday) morning and then plan on how to go forward,” Rohit had said.
(AI image)
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