(Reuters)
Star Indian all-rounder Hardik Pandya has shown no interest in rejoining the national red-ball team, despite his pivotal role in recent white-ball tournaments. He is expected to skip the upcoming Duleep Trophy, starting next month in Bengaluru.
The Duleep Trophy, a multi-day first-class competition, will kick off with its opening match at Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru on September 5. The tournament features a league format and will wrap up on September 22, with no knockout stages.
Hardik Pandya To Miss Duleep Trophy 2024
The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has instructed international players to participate in the Duleep Trophy before the hectic Test season begins. However, Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, and Jasprit Bumrah have not been specifically directed to play. Hardik Pandya is unlikely to be involved as the BCCI has not pressured him, given his lack of red-ball commitments.
As per a Cricbuzz report, KL Rahul, Shubman Gill, R Ashwin, Ravindra Jadeja, Axar Patel, Shreyas Iyer, and Yashasvi Jaiswal are expected to compete in the Duleep Trophy. Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli have the option to choose their participation in the tournament.
