Former New Zealand cricketer and respected analyst Simon Doull has questioned Hardik Pandya’s health, specifically his bowling abilities. Doull’s concerns come despite Pandya’s troubles in the ongoing Indian Premier League 2024 season, when he has received criticism for his play as captain of the Mumbai Indians side.
Doull stated his doubts during a recent Cricbuzz episode, implying that Pandya may be hiding an ailment. “You go out and make a statement by opening the bowling in game no. 1, and suddenly, you are not required,” the commentator said. “He is injured. I’m telling you that something is wrong with him. He’s not acknowledging it. However, something is definitely wrong with him. “That’s my gut feeling,” claimed the Kiwi commentator.
In reaction to Doull’s remarks, Pandya defended his few bowling appearances during the event. Following the Mumbai Indians’ victory over the Delhi Capitals, Pandya told the media that he is in good shape and will bowl whenever necessary. “All good, I’ll be bowling at the appropriate time. Pandya maintained that he had it covered and did not need to roll his arm over.
Concerns over Pandya’s fitness arise from his history of ailments, most notably a setback experienced during India’s ODI World Cup 2023 match against Bangladesh. Following his injury, Pandya rehabilitated at the National Cricket Academy in Bengaluru and the Kiran More Cricket Academy in his birthplace of Vadodara, Gujarat.
His absence from November 2023 to mid-March 2024 sparked concerns about his match fitness, namely his ability to contribute as an all-rounder.
