3 players who can replace Hardik Pandya in India playing XI vs NZ

Hardik Pandya has been ruled out of IND vs NZ clash due to ankle injury.

Team India suffered a major setback against Bangladesh when their key all-rounder, Hardik Pandya, walked of the field in the 9th over of the first innings. Hardik Pandya suffered an injury in his left ankle. He sustained an injury while attempting to stop a straight drive from Litton Das. Pandya walked back without completing his opening over in the game. He was immediately taken for scans, and the reports suggested nothing serious about his injury.

Even if it is not so serious, Pandya will need a week to recover from his injury and will miss India’s next game against New Zealand at HPCA Stadium in Dharamshala. Pandya’s absence will give team India a headache before the big game. Pandya’s presence has provided team India with an extra bowling option in the playing XI as well as a formidable option in finishing. Let’s have a look at the possible replacements of Hardik Pandya.

Here are 3 players who can replace Hardik Pandya in India's playing XI against New Zealand:

1. Suryakumar Yadav :

Suryakumar Yadav is yet to make his World Cup debut, and now Hardik Pandya’s absence has opened the door for him in Indian playing XI. Suryakumar Yadav can be a formidable option for team India in the finishing role, but his inclusion might make India a bowler short. Surya has not fired enough in the ODI format, and team India will be looking to give him a chance against New Zealand if they wish to include an extra batter in the playing XI.

2. Ravichandran Ashwin :

Off-spinner Ravichandran Ashwin played only one game in the ongoing ICC Cricket World Cup 2023. Team India can unleash one of their smartest spin weapons against Kiwis, who are slightly inexperienced against spinners. Ashwin’s inclusion will promote Ravindra Jadeja at number 6 in the batting-order and may make Indian tail look longer. Ashwin is a decent batter and can give his contributions with the bat as well.

3. Mohammed Shami :

Dharamshala might have pacer-friendly conditions as the temperature is slightly going down in north of India. Mohammed Shami is yet to play a game in the ICC Cricket World Cup 2023, and Pandya’s absence has opened the door for him as well. Team India might be a batter short in the game if Shami replaces Pandya, but his inclusion will definitely prove to be helpful for team India in the bowling attack.