According to PTI sources in the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), star players Hardik Pandya and Shubman Gill are likely to be rested from the three-match T20I series against Ireland starting next month. The possible rest of Pandya and Gill is primarily aimed at workload management, as the Asia Cup and ODI World Cup are very close. The decision has been taken as the BCCI aims to ensure that key players are in peak form and fitness for these important tournaments.
“Nothing is finalized as of now and it will also depend on how Hardik feels after the ODIs and T20s in the West Indies. There is travel involved and only a short three days change before flying from Florida to Dublin. With the World Cup being of paramount importance, one has to keep one’s workload in mind as well. Let’s not forget that he will be Rohit’s deputy in the World Cup,” a BCCI source told PTI on condition of anonymity.
sweat season pic.twitter.com/7gdfHDGH0d– Hardik Pandya (@hardikpandya7) 15 July 2023
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Suryakumar Yadav Set To Captain India
Given that Suryakumar Yadav serves as the vice-captain of India’s T20I team, he will step in as the leader if Hardik is rested for the upcoming series. The right-handed batsman Suryakumar showcased his captaincy skills during IPL 2023 as the skipper of Mumbai Indians. As a result, there is a high possibility that he could make his international captaincy debut next month
Pandya’s role as India’s T20I captain and all-rounder
The 29-year-old all-rounder Hardik Pandya has been leading India in the T20I format in the recent series and has been performing exceptionally well on the field. His consistent contributions with both bat and ball have made him an indispensable member of India’s ODI squad, providing the necessary balance to the team.
Young squad hopeful for Ireland tour
With the possibility of a youth team being sent to Ireland, Pandya was once again expected to captain the side. However, as with the rest of the cards, the team management and national selection panel will have to carefully consider the leadership position for the series.
workload concerns between consecutive tours
A BCCI source revealed that though nothing has been finalized yet, Pandya’s workload will be taken into consideration, especially considering the busy schedule with back-to-back tours. The demanding itinerary includes a series against the West Indies in the Caribbean and the United States before touring Ireland.
Preparation for the World Cup and responsibilities as Rohit’s deputy
As the ODI World Cup takes priority, Pandya’s role as Rohit Sharma’s deputy in the tournament further enhances the importance of managing his workload efficiently. The BCCI aims to keep Pandya fresh and injury-free for the high-risk event.
Challenging Itineraries and Travel Ideas
The white-ball leg of the West Indies tour will see Pandya in action for eight matches in just 18 days across several Caribbean countries and the United States. A possible trip from the United States to Ireland and then to India ahead of the Asia Cup in Colombo raises concerns about overload.
workload management
A comprehensive approach to workload management includes not only matches played but also training sessions, monitoring batting duration and number of overs bowled. Such careful tracking is essential to ensure players stay fit and at their best throughout the season.
leadership puzzle for ireland series
In Pandya’s absence, the Indian team will face an interesting decision regarding the leadership role for the Ireland T20I series. Selecting the right captain to lead the young team will be crucial to maintain the team’s performance levels during the tour.