January 21, 2025

ICC World Cup: Hardik Pandya’s absence against New Zealand is a test of India’s adaptability | Cricket News

[ad_1]

NEW DELHI: India face a significant challenge as they prepare to face fellow unbeaten team New Zealand in the ICC World Cup on Sunday, with the winning team getting a step closer to the semi-finals.
India’s chances have suffered a setback by the absence of star all-rounder Hardik Pandya, who sustained an ankle injury in that match against Bangladesh, which ruled him out of the crucial clash against New Zealand.

Both India and New Zealand have played four matches so far and won all four. New Zealand sit atop the points table because of their better net run rate.

Pandya’s injury has disrupted India’s balance, and his absence will force the hosts to rethink their combination and strategies.

Mohammed Shami is expected to replaced Hardik in the playing XI, given the conditions in Dharamsala that favour fast bowlers. To bolster the batting, Suryakumar Yadav is expected to be included. It remains to be seen who will make way for these changes, but Shardul Thakur is a likely candidate to be replaced, as Shami’s pace and swing could be beneficial in these conditions.

The inclusion of Ravichandran Ashwin is also a possibility, offering an option for India with both bat and ball.

The Indian batting lineup, led by Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, KL Rahul, and Shubman Gill, has been in superb form. In the bowling department, Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Siraj, Kuldeep Yadav and Ravindra Jadeja have been outstanding.

India’s head-to-head record against New Zealand in the World Cup shows it to be a close affair, with the Kiwis ahead 5-4 in nine matches.
Despite the absence of skipper Kane Williamson, who fractured his thumb, New Zealand have been impressive, with their batting department sharing responsibilities. The bowling attack led by Mitchell Santner has been formidable.
(With PTI inputs)



[ad_2]

Source link