Back injury may keep Hardik out for long period

New Delhi, October 1

India’s first-choice all-rounder Hardik Pandya is set to miss the T20I series against Bangladesh since his lower-back injury has resurfaced and may force him out of action for a long period. According to BCCI sources, Pandya will soon fly to the United Kingdom for an assessment of the injury, which was first sustained during the Asia Cup in Dubai in September last year. 

The Baroda all-rounder is the second key member in the Indian team to go out on an injury lay-off, after premier speedster Jasprit Bumrah was ruled out of the South Africa Test series due to stress fractures in his lower back. “Hardik is also set to go the United Kingdom to consult the same doctor who had treated him during the first injury after the Asia Cup. He is certainly not playing the Bangladesh series but how long he will be out is still not clear. We will know after he comes back from the United Kingdom,” a BCCI official said. 

Germany could be another option for Pandya for his check-up, but BCCI would prefer him to consult doctors in the UK. It is being speculated that Pandya may have to go for a back surgery, which will keep him out for about five months.

Kanitkar, Powar coaches

Meanwhile, in another development, Hrishikesh Kanitkar and Ramesh Powar will be the permanent batting and bowling coaches at the National Cricket Academy (NCA). They will report to NCA Director of Cricket Rahul Dravid and travel with various representative teams (India U-19, India A) as and when required.

HCA meeting

During a meeting of the Committee of Administrators today, it was decided that Haryana Cricket Association officials will be asked to meet the committee members along with the state unit’s amended constitution on Thursday. — PTI