The Indian selectors had a crucial meeting with the team management last week to discuss the squad for the upcoming T20 World Cup in USA and West Indies later this year. One of the key talking points in the two hour long discussion was all-rounder Hardik Pandya's place in the 15-man squad.
Pandya's form with both bat and ball in the current IPL season has been a concern for the selectors. Although he is one of the star performers for his franchise Mumbai Indians, he is yet to find his rhythm this season. His inability to bowl regularly has doubt cast over his ability to provide the balance required as a genuine all-rounder.
Team India are looking for a seam bowling all-rounder who can bat in the middle-order and also bowl his full quota of overs. While Pandya fits the profile, his economy rate has been on the higher side in the few overs he has bowled. There are apprehensions over his ability to bowl at the death if needed.
The selectors have asked Pandya to focus on improving his bowling in the remaining IPL matches to stake his claim for a place in the World Cup squad. Another candidate in consideration is Shivam Dube but he is used more as an impact player by his franchise and may not be able to offer enough with the ball if picked.
With the mega event scheduled to be held later this year, the spotlight will be on Pandya to find form with both bat and ball and give the team management a solution to their seemingly never-ending search for a genuine all-rounder package. His World Cup hopes hang in the balance as he aim to address the concerns over his bowling ahead of the selections.
