Captaining Ahmedabad will be the platform for Hardik Pandya’s selection in Indian team, says Sourav Ganguly

The BCCI president and former Indian cricketer, Sourav Ganguly recently answered many queries floating around in a recent chat. While he stayed clear of the controversy around Indian captaincy saga, other issues that have been a concern came up. He opened up on Hardik Pandya’s selection and comeback, and confirmed the series against West Indies will be played behind closed doors.

When asked about Hardik Pandya playing back for the Indian team, he said that the all-rounder was given a break to recover from his injury so that he can be fully fit to represent India. Ganguly expected to see him in the Ranji Trophy.

“I expect him to bowl a lot more overs and his body will get stronger. Also, he is now captain of Ahmedabad IPL and that will be a platform where his form and fitness will be checked by selectors. Accordingly, they will take a call.”

Notably, Hardik has been in and out of the India team since his back injury in 2019. He also has been left out of the upcoming white-ball series against West Indies.

India-West Indies series to be held behind closed doors

Ganguly also clarified that all the matches in the series against West Indies will be played behind closed doors, despite the West Bengal state government allowing 75 percent of spectators. No spectators are allowed in the Narendra Modi Stadium as well.

Stating the reason for not allowing spectators, Ganguly said, “In these times, we can’t risk the health of the players by allowing spectators. No tickets for the stands of Life or Associate members will be issued. Obviously, we have the clearance of the West Bengal government but BCCI doesn’t want to risk the health safety of players.”

The white-ball series against West Indies will begin on the 6th of February. The three ODI matches will be played first at the Narendra Modi Stadium, Ahmedabad, followed by three T20I matches at the Eden Gardens, Kolkata.