Former Indian cricketer Harbhajan Singh names Hardik Pandya's replacement for NZ clash

Hardik Pandya will miss the upcoming clash against New Zealand on Sunday.

India have had a brilliant start to the ICC Cricket World Cup 2023. They have won all the matches that they have played so far and are second in the points table. India have beaten Australia, Afghanistan, Pakistan, and Bangladesh comprehensively. But their next game is going to be a big one. India will face New Zealand in their upcoming game.

This match will take place on Sunday at the HPCA stadium in Dharamsala. Both teams are unbeaten in this tournament so far, which is why this is going to be an exciting contest. However, India suffered a major blow in the last game against Bangladesh in Pune. Vice-captain Hardik Pandya sustained an ankle injury that has ruled him out of the upcoming clash against New Zealand.

Harbhajan Singh reckons India should pick Shami and SKY to replace Hardik Pandya

Hardik Pandya will not feature in the next game for India on Sunday. He hasn't travelled with the team, and he will join the team for the next class in Lucknow against England. India will have great concern to address of choosing Pandya's replacement as he gives the team great balance with his all-round ability. Former Indian spinner Harbhajan Singh feels that India will have to pick two players to compensate for Hardik Pandya's loss.

In an interview with Aaj Tak, Harbhajan said, "It's a big issue for India if Hardik Pandya is not fit. He sets our combination, and if he doesn't play, then you will have to change it. You can either play Ishan Kishan or Suryakumar Yadav as a pure batter. We are playing Shardul Thakur because of his all-round abilities. I think you should bring Mohammed Shami in his place, as he can give you a solid 10 overs."

India will have the option to pick Ravichandran Ashwin, who can also contribute with bat and ball. But according to Harbhajan, it will be a wise decision to pick Mohammad Shami, who can ball with old and new balls. It will be a big test for Indian team because Hardik Pandya has been a consistent performer for India in both departments. India will face England in their next game in Lucknow on October 29th. Hardik is at the NCA in Bangalore for his rehab.