'Hardik Pandya is injured, he is not admitting it' - Simon Doull makes a bold claim regarding MI skipper

The Mumbai Indians camp is facing a concerning situation ahead of their crucial clash against arch-rivals Chennai Super Kings in the ongoing IPL. Former New Zealand pacer Simon Doull has claimed that star all-rounder and MI's skipper Hardik Pandya is dealing with an injury which he is refusing to acknowledge.

Doull's explosive remark comes on the back of Pandya's inconsistent bowling performances in the ongoing IPL season. After opening the bowling for MI in the first two matches and picking just one wicket, the 30-year-old has been conspicuously absent from the bowling crease in the subsequent games.

“You go out and make a statement by opening the bowling in-game no. 1, and suddenly, you are not required. He's injured. I'm telling you there is something wrong with him. He is not admitting it. But there is something wrong with him for sure. That is my gut feeling,” Doull said on Cricbuzz.

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Will be bowling at the right time: Hardik Pandya

Pandya's decision to not bowl during the match against Delhi Capitals had already raised eyebrows, with the skipper stating that he would be bowling at the right time. However, Doull's comments suggest that there might be more to the story.

“All good will be bowling at the right time. Had it covered, so didn't need to roll my arm over," Hardik said earlier during a post-match interview.

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The timing of Doull's revelation is particularly significant, as it comes just ahead of Mumbai Indians' high-voltage clash against their arch-rivals, the Chennai Super Kings. Pandya's fitness and availability could be a crucial factor in determining the outcome of the match, as the five-time champions look to bounce back after a shaky start in the season.

With The T20 World Cup 2024 also just around the corner, any prolonged absence for Pandya could jeopardize his chances of being fully fit and ready for the marquee event in June. Though MI's skipper is not bowling, the Mumbai-based franchise made a comeback and won back-to-back games after losing their first three games of the season.