Mumbai Indians captain Hardik Pandya has not bowled much in the Indian Premier League 2024. Former New Zealand pacer Simon Doull has levelled serious allegations against the all-rounder, saying he is hiding his injury.
Hardik was out of action for months after injuring his ankle during the ICC World Cup 2023. He did not play before returning for Mumbai Indians in the 17th season. After playing for Gujarat Titans for two seasons, he made a comeback to MI and replaced Rohit Sharma as the skipper of the five-time champions.
Hardik opened the bowling for Mumbai in the first two games against Gujarat Titans and Sunrisers Hyderabad. However, he took a break from bowling in the next two contests against Rajasthan Royals and Delhi Capitals. In his team's second win against RCB, he bowled just one over.
Doull stated that Harik is injured but is not disclosing it, so he has opted out of bowling duties.
“You opened the bowling in the first two matches and then suddenly decided to keep yourself away from bowling. I am telling you that there is some wrong and he is hiding it. He is not fit for sure.”
In three matches, he has taken only one wicket and conceded runs at an economy rate of over 11. Doull believes that Hardik will not be chosen for the ICC T20 World Cup 2024 squad unless he bowls four overs in every IPL match.