Ravi Shastri Makes A Massive Claim Regarding Hardik Pandya Ahead Of The 2023 World Cup

Hardik Pandya is enjoying the form of his life since his comeback into cricket after injury. After making the comeback, he won the Indian T20 League 2022 for his Gujarat franchise as captain, and then, he won two T20Is against Ireland by leading India. He even managed to become the player of the series for India in the three-match ODI series against England on their soil.

This kind of form has made him an X-factor for the team ahead of the mega event in Australia later this year. However, he will be a pivotal part also for India ahead of the 50-over format World Cup in 2023, India. But, now, former India coach, Ravi Shastri came with a massive claim about him as he would like to prefer only to play in one format after the 2023 World Cup.

“Hardik Pandya wants to play T20 cricket, and he is very clear in his mind” – Ravi Shastri

Speaking to India Today, Ravi Shastri said that Hardik may play the 50-over format now as the World Cup is scheduled next year. But, he might not continue after that as he wants to play T20 cricket more than any other format.

He said: “Test cricket will always remain because of the importance it brings to the game. You have players already choosing what formats they want to play. Take a Hardik Pandya. He wants to play T20 cricket, and he is very clear in his mind that ‘I do not want to play anything else. He will play 50-over cricket because there is a World Cup in India next year. After that, you might see him going from that as well. You will see a similar thing happening with other players, they will start choosing formats, and they have every right to,”

Shastri also showed concern as cricketers are starting to choose specific formats as per their choice. Playing all three formats is becoming increasingly strenuous for the players. Hence, he suggested all the Cricket Boards for cutting down international cricket, especially bilateral cricket. “It is going to happen, there is going to be franchise cricket that is going to rule the roost around the world. Then how will you have international cricket? You will have to cut the volume, you have to cut bilateral cricket, and go in that direction. You will never be able to stop different players going and playing for different franchises,” Shastri concluded.