Breaking: Hardik Pandya's initial scan reports revealed, injury not serious

Hardik Pandya was taken for scans after suffering ankle injury in IND vs BAN ICC Cricket World Cup 2023 match 17.

India are playing the fourth game at the ICC Cricket World Cup 2023 against Bangladesh in Pune, a heart-wrenching incident unfolded on the field. All-rounder Hardik Pandya suffered an injury to his left ankle during his first over.

This unfortunate event took place in the third delivery of his over when Pandya attempted to stop the ball. The immediate consequence was a visible distress on Pandya's face, and the medical team was called to his aid. Crape bandages were applied, but the pain was too intense for him to continue bowling, forcing him to go of the field. Virat Kohli stepped in and completed his over.

Hardik Pandya sent for further scans

Following this, Hardik Pandya was escorted off the field and was subsequently scheduled for further scans, as confirmed by the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI).

Indian cricket fans can now have a sigh of relief as the latest information emanating from Pune suggests that the injury may not be as severe as initially feared.

Although the situation is still evolving, it has come to light that the preliminary scan assessment has ruled out any major injury. However, an official confirmation is pending and will only be available once the report is prepared and shared with Team India's medical staff and the BCCI.

Khel Now has learnt that the early scan assessment rules out major injury. However, official word can only come once the report is prepared and shared with India's team doctor and BCCI.

Khel Now source aware of the development said, "Even though it may not be as serious as it seemed today afternoon, but the Team Management still might take precaution and not rush Hardik into playing XI soon. Look, India are already in 3 match up, and hopefully win today as well. It puts India a step closer to the qualifier. The team would want Hardik back in full fitness. Hardik is key for India ahead.”

Indian captain Rohit Sharma confirms Khel Now exclusive story

Indian captain Rohit Sharma, after India's 7-wicket win over Bangladesh, in the post-match presentation, confirmed the news as earlier reported by Khel Now that Hardik Pandya's injury isn't serious.

Rohit Sharma said, "He (Hardik) pulled up a bit sore. There is no major damage, that is good for us. But obviously with an injury like that, we have to assess every day and we will do whatever is required."

(*This story is updated at 10:05 PM on 19th October, 2023 with Rohit Sharma's post-match presentation comments)