The Indian cricket team is gearing up to face Ireland in a three-match T20I series commencing on August 18. However, it appears that star all-rounder Hardik Pandya might be rested for the series to manage his workload effectively. As Pandya is an essential player for the upcoming World Cup and Asia Cup in 2023, the Indian team is keen on ensuring his fitness and availability for these major tournaments.
Initially, it was expected that Pandya would lead the side for the T20I series against Ireland. Nevertheless, recent reports indicate that the decision to rest him is being considered, given the short turnaround time and extensive travelling involved between the ODI and T20I series against the West Indies and the subsequent tour to Ireland.
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A BCCI source revealed that nothing has been finalized yet, and Pandya’s well-being after the West Indies tour would be a significant factor in determining the course of action. With the upcoming World Cup being the top priority, the Indian management must carefully manage the workload of key players like Pandya, especially since he will serve as Rohit Sharma’s deputy in the tournament.
Hardik Pandya and Shubman Gill likely to be rested in the T20I series against Ireland to manage their workload. The final decision will be taken later. (To PTI) pic.twitter.com/xCVBrAhwaR
— CricketMAN2 (@ImTanujSingh) July 21, 2023
Rest and recovery for players are crucial, considering the busy schedule with the ODI and T20I series against the West Indies, and the imminent Asia Cup. The BCCI is mindful of providing adequate rest to its players to keep them in prime condition for major competitions.
Apart from Pandya, other star players like Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma will also be given rest during the T20I series against the West Indies. Both Kohli and Sharma haven’t featured in a T20I match since the 2022 World Cup, and their focus is on maintaining peak form and fitness for the upcoming ODI games.
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The Indian team’s strategy is to carefully manage its players’ workloads, ensuring they remain fresh and prepared for crucial contests ahead. As India prepares to face Ireland, the team aims to strike the right balance between giving opportunities to other players and ensuring the fitness of key personnel for the forthcoming challenges.
