India vs Sri Lanka: Ravi Shastri Backs Hardik Pandya To Work On His Fitness

Former India cricketer Ravi Shastri has called on star all-rounder Hardik Pandya to focus on improving his fitness. Pandya has struggled with a series of injuries in recent times, including a significant ankle injury that sidelined him for most of the ODI World Cup 2023. This ongoing concern with fitness was highlighted by chief selector Ajit Agarkar, who revealed that Pandya's physical condition was a key factor in the decision not to appoint him as captain for the current T20I series against Sri Lanka. Shastri emphasized that for Pandya to secure a consistent place in the ODI squad, he needs to address his fitness issues.

He suggested that Pandya's participation and performance in T20 Internationals could serve as a platform for his return to the 50-over format. Shastri is hopeful that Pandya’s standout performances in the T20 World Cup 2024 will not only bolster his confidence but also inspire him to commit to a rigorous fitness regimen. By reaching peak fitness, Pandya would enhance his chances of becoming a regular fixture in the ODI team and achieving his full potential in international cricket. Shastri’s advice reflects a broader concern about Pandya’s fitness and its impact on his career trajectory.

"I think (it's) very important that he continues to play. I believe match fitness is very important. So whatever T20I cricket there is, he should play as much as he can. And if he feels strong and fit, then obviously he comes into the side for the one-day game as well," former India head coach Ravi Shastri told the ICC.

“But then again, the bowling becomes important. If you have someone coming and bowling just three overs in where you have to bowl 10 in a one-day game, then the balance of the side takes a hit. If you can bowl consistently eight to 10 overs every game and then bat the way he does, I think he'll play in one-day cricket as well," he added.

Hardik Pandya, although currently part of India’s T20I squad for the series against Sri Lanka, has not been included in the ODI team. Despite this, Pandya made significant contributions in the first two T20I matches, helping India secure a decisive two-game lead and ultimately win the series. His performances were instrumental in ensuring that the Men in Blue clinched the series early. The third and final T20I of the series is scheduled to be held in Pallekele on July 30. Pandya’s involvement in the T20I series demonstrates his continued importance to the team, even as he remains absent from the ODI setup.