- Hardik Pandya missed MI vs LSG due to back spasms.
- Captaincy was handed to Suryakumar Yadav late.
- Pandya’s injury extent and return date remain uncertain.
- His absence led to Rohit Sharma’s opening return.
Hardik Pandya’s Availability In RCB vs MI:The Mumbai Indians have clarified the circumstances surrounding the sudden absence of Hardik Pandya during their recent victory over the Lucknow Super Giants at the Wankhede Stadium. Despite initial confusion at the toss, team management later confirmed that a debilitating back spasm prevented the captain from taking the field.
Sudden Change In Plans For MI
The decision to bench the regular captain was made remarkably late, leaving several teammates unaware of the situation until the final hours. Suryakumar Yadav assumed the leadership role and initially suggested that the all-rounder was simply unwell.
Ryan Rickelton, who played a starring role in the match, admitted that the news came as a surprise to the squad. “I found out myself this afternoon that he had back spasms,” the opener explained.
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Extent of the Injury
While the franchise has confirmed the nature of the ailment, the timeline for Pandya’s return to the starting eleven remains uncertain. Medical staff are reportedly monitoring his recovery before the team travels for their next fixture.
“I don’t know the extent of the injury or how bad it is,” Rickelton added during the post-match press conference. He expressed hope that the skipper would rejoin the squad for the trip to Raipur.
Impact on Team Balance
Pandya’s absence necessitated a significant reshuffle, allowing for the return of Rohit Sharma to the top of the order. This change proved fruitful as the veteran batsman helped anchor a record-breaking chase of 229 runs.
Corbin Bosch also entered the side to replace Trent Boult, providing additional depth to the bowling attack. Despite the late disruption, the five-time champions displayed a clinical performance to secure two vital points at home.
Will Hardik Be Available In RCB vs MI Match?
The victory provides a much-needed boost to a side currently positioned ninth in the table with three wins. The focus now shifts to whether their primary all-rounder can recover in time for the remaining games.
Rickelton concluded by stating, “I am not sure how he is feeling, but I am sure that he will be with us again.” Fans are now awaiting a formal medical bulletin regarding his long-term availability.
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