- Hardik Pandya to captain India in the T20I series against Sri Lanka from July 27 to 30.
- Rohit Sharma retired from T20 Internationals after India’s T20 World Cup victory.
- Pandya will take a break during the ODI series due to personal reasons.
Hardik Pandya, the star all-rounder, is set to lead India in the upcoming three-match T20 International series against Sri Lanka, starting July 27 in Pallekele. This decision follows Rohit Sharma’s retirement from T20 Internationals after India’s triumph in the T20 World Cup.
Following the T20Is, Pandya will take a break from the three-match ODI series scheduled from August 2 to 7 in Colombo due to personal reasons. The BCCI has stated that there are no fitness issues with Pandya, contrary to media reports.
Pandya Takes the Helm for T20Is, Takes Break for ODIs
Hardik Pandya is poised to captain India in the T20 International series against Sri Lanka, which kicks off on July 27 in Pallekele. This leadership change comes after Rohit Sharma’s retirement from T20 Internationals post the T20 World Cup. Pandya, who served as vice-captain under Rohit, is fully fit and eager to lead the team.
The T20I series will be closely watched as Pandya steps into the captaincy role. The selection of his deputy remains undecided, with Shubman Gill and Suryakumar Yadav being the top contenders. Both players have previous captaincy experience in international matches, adding depth to the leadership team.
As for the ODI series set from August 2 to 7 in Colombo, Pandya has requested a leave of absence for personal reasons. The BCCI has clarified that his break is not due to fitness concerns. This series will see regular captain Rohit Sharma also taking a break, prompting a search for interim leadership.
KL Rahul and Shubman Gill are the frontrunners to lead the ODI squad in the absence of Pandya and Sharma. Both players have previously led the team in different capacities, with Rahul having captained the last ODI series in South Africa. The final decision on the ODI captaincy is expected soon.
Hardik Pandya’s appointment as T20I captain marks a significant moment for Indian cricket, showcasing the trust placed in his leadership abilities. His upcoming break from the ODIs for personal reasons highlights the importance of balance and well-being for players at this level.
“The break from ODIs is for very personal reasons. Hardik doesn’t have any fitness issue as is being floated in the media,” said a senior BCCI source.
