Hardik Pandya's fitness is a significant concern for India, with Aakash Chopra suggesting a 'fragile sticker' should be put on the all-rounder due to his persistent injury issues. On 18 Jun, Chopra made the remarks in a video on his YouTube channel.
What happened?
Aakash Chopra, the former India batter, expressed his concerns about India's seam-bowling all-rounder options, citing Hardik Pandya and Nitish Kumar Reddy's frequent injuries. Chopra warned that India lacks enticing options beyond the injured pair.
Nitish Kumar Reddy will miss India's T20I series against Ireland and England due to a left quadriceps injury. Suryansh Shedge has been named as his replacement in the 16-member squad.
Why it matters for Hardik Pandya
Hardik Pandya's injury issues have plagued him for a long time, and his availability is still uncertain. Chopra noted that Pandya's fitness carries significant weight given India's planning towards the 2027 ODI World Cup.
Chopra used a memorable image to underline how carefully India must manage their medium-pace all-rounders, extending the warning beyond Nitish alone to include Pandya. "Nitish Kumar Reddy has gotten injured once again. A fragile sticker should be put on him. Why put it on him alone? You should put it on everyone. Put it on Hardik Pandya and Nitish Kumar Reddy. Put a fragile sticker on all medium-pace all-rounders. Handle with care," Chopra said.
What comes next?
The former opener expressed unease about India's options in this specific role heading into the next ODI World Cup cycle, noting that quality seam-bowling all-rounders are difficult to source. Chopra observed that Hardik Pandya hasn't been available for a long time and is still not available, while Nitish Kumar Reddy is available sporadically.
Chopra also weighed in on Nitish's replacement, expressing approval at the selection of Suryansh Shedge. Shedge's strong domestic and India A returns made him a sensible choice for seam-friendly conditions.
The India squad for the England tour 2026 has been announced, with Suryansh Shedge named in the 16-member squad. The team will play a T20I series against Ireland and England, starting on 18 Jun.
Aakash Chopra's comments highlight the concerns surrounding Hardik Pandya's fitness and India's lack of seam-bowling all-rounder options. With the 2027 ODI World Cup approaching, India will need to find a solution to this problem to ensure a successful campaign.