EXCLUSIVE: Hardik Pandya to begin light training from this weekend

Hardik Pandya suffered an injury on his left ankle during CWC 2023 game against Bangladesh in Pune.

India are having an exceptional run in the ongoing ICC Cricket World Cup 2023. India have won all five of their matches, and have put one foot in the semi-finals round. However, amidst all this, a concern arrived in Indian team with vice-captain and premier all-rounder of the team, when Hardik Pandya suffered an injury during the match against Bangladesh in Pune. Pandya, sustaining an injury on his left ankle, was immediately taken for scans to assess the extent of his damage.

Fortunately, the scans revealed that the injury was not as severe as initially feared. Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) made the official announcement that Pandya would not participate in the crucial game against New Zealand, which took place on the 22nd of October in Dharamshala. And would join the team back in Lucknow before the match where the hosts will face the defending champions.

As a result, he did not travel with the team and instead went to National Cricket Academy (NCA) in Bengaluru, where he would receive dedicated care and rehabilitation. But now that he is at the NCA, it is confirmed that he won't be part of India's next league encounter against England.

Hardik Pandya to begin light training

The latest update on Hardik Pandya's road to recovery is encouraging for fans and Indian cricket team. According to Khel Now sources close to developments, "Hardik Pandya is scheduled to commence light training this weekend at the NCA." This marks a significant step forward in his recovery process and a positive sign for his eventual return to the squad.

BCCI even had a thought of getting him match ready with help of injections and continue playing in India's remaining matches. But they opted for the path of proper rest and rehabilitation.

"The BCCI also had an option to play Hardik Pandya in the fixtures with injections, but the board has decided to let the all-rounder heal naturally. Since India have already set one foot on the semi-finals with five consecutive wins and 10 points in the table, BCCI has decided to give Pandya enough time to recover naturally. Pandya is set to miss India's next games." the source added.

BCCI's decision to prioritise Pandya's long-term fitness over immediate needs was clear when they chose not to rush his return.

Pandya is currently at NCA in Bengaluru, where he will undergo extensive rehabilitation and training. Although he will miss the upcoming matches which India are set to play. India have four more league games until the knock-out stages begin. India will play England in Lucknow, Sri Lanka in Mumbai, South Africa in Kolkata and Netherlands in Bengaluru.

However, Hardik Pandya is likely to make his comeback in India's last two league matches against South Africa and Netherlands to be up and running for the knockouts.

India will be next seen in action against England in Lucknow on Sunday, 29th October.