T20 WC 2021: Four backup options for Hardik Pandya if he misses out

India and Mumbai Indians (MI) all-rounder Hardik Pandya has been selected by the BCCI selection panel as the designated finisher of the team for T20 WC 2021. Indian skipper Virat Kohli has vouched in several of his interviews that the junior Pandya is important in maintaining the balance of the team. It is a well-documented fact that Kohli loves playing five specialist bowlers in all three formats of the game. With his seam bowling and handy lower-order batting, Pandya slots in the team either at number six or seven.

Things though have changed since his surgery to the back. Hardik Pandya was not seen bowling fully until the recent limited-overs series against Sri Lanka. He returned to bowling in three ODI games and picked two wickets. While everyone pretty much assumed that he is back with his bowling too getting sorted, MI have so far not used the all-rounder’s services while bowling in two of the games that he has played in the ongoing Indian Premier League (IPL).

Mahela Jayawardene, head coach of MI said that the team won’t push Hardik to bowl as he might face some difficulties and struggle in the long run during the T20 World Cup. As soon as this news became viral, the experts and critics questioned the selection of Hardik Pandya in the team for the marquee event. India can alter the squad till October 10, and it remains to be seen if Hardik makes the cut as an all-rounder. Meanwhile, here are a few

Backup options for Hardik Pandya for the T20 World Cup

1. Shardul Thakur

India all-rounder Shardul Thakur is in the team for the T20 World Cup as one of the traveling reserves. During the recently concluded Test series against England, Thakur played two Tests and picked seven wickets. He also contributed with the bat scoring 117 runs across three innings. The Mumbai all-rounder is pretty much similar to Hardik, although Thakur predominately falls under the category of a bowling all-rounder.

Thakur can be used in playing XI for India’s matches during the global event due to his impact with both bat and ball. Also, Thakur is not afraid to express himself while batting as was evidenced during the England Tests. His counter-attacking innings of 57 runs during the third Test match Oval was superb and gave the innings an impetus.

Thakur’s bowling is also more than decent, and the management can certainly think of slotting him in place of Hardik. Thakur has so far played 21 T20Is and has taken 31 wickets.