India’s hopes in the ongoing ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup were dealt a significant blow when star all-rounder Hardik Pandya was ruled out for the remainder of the tournament due to an ankle injury.

The injury occurred during a match against Bangladesh in Pune when Pandya attempted to stop the ball. Subsequently, he missed all matches, and in preparation for India’s encounter with South Africa, pacer Prasidh Krishna was added to the squad as Pandya’s replacement.

A BCCI (Board of Control for Cricket in India) official shed light on Pandya’s injury and the decision to name a replacement. The official clarified that Pandya, at 30 years of age, did not sustain a fracture but had a minor tear. Initially, he resumed training, but substantial swelling developed in his left ankle, making it impossible for him to bowl. This injury couldn’t be managed with injections, and the swelling resurfaced, delaying his return to skills training.

In Hardik’s absence, India has relied on specialist players, solidifying their starting lineup. Mohammed Shami and Suryakumar Yadav have emerged as a formidable combination in recent games, replacing all-rounders Shardul Thakur and Hardik.

The addition of Prasidh as backup to the pace trio of Mohammed Siraj, Mohammed Shami, and Jasprit Bumrah seems to be a wise choice. With Shardul Thakur and R Ashwin in the squad, it appears that the selectors opted not to bring in another all-rounder.

On Sunday, November 5, the Indian team will face South Africa at Eden Gardens in Kolkata. Following this match, their last league-stage game will be against the Netherlands in Bengaluru.