Rumors of tension between Rohit Sharma and Hardik Pandya surfaced when Pandya took over as captain of the Mumbai Indians (MI) for IPL 2024, replacing Sharma. However, the move seemed to have negative consequences as MI failed to qualify for the playoffs. Pandya’s performance in the season has been lackluster, with modest stats despite some improvement in bowling towards the end of the tournament.
Despite this, Pandya secured a spot in the 15-man squad for the upcoming T20 World Cup. Reports suggested that neither Sharma nor the selection committee, led by Ajit Agarkar, were keen on Pandya’s inclusion, hinting at external pressure. There were suggestions that Sharma might retire from the T20 format after the World Cup.
However, uncertainties linger over Pandya’s role in the playing XI, and his participation in all matches is not guaranteed. At a press conference following the T20 World Cup squad announcement, Agarkar mentioned the lack of suitable alternatives as the reason behind Pandya’s selection, despite his recent form.
India is set to play three out of four Group A matches in New York, including a highly-anticipated game against Pakistan on June 9, with the fourth fixture against Canada in Florida on June 15.