The upcoming T20I series between India and Australia is set to begin on November 23 in Vizag and conclude in Hyderabad on December 3. Hardik Pandya, India’s all-rounder, will miss the series against Australia and the white-ball leg of the South Africa tour due to an ankle injury sustained during the ICC World Cup. The injury occurred during India’s World Cup group stage match against Bangladesh on October 19th, resulting in a ligament tear on his right ankle. Pandya was forced to leave the ground after delivering only three balls in his first over.
Following the injury, Pandya will not be able to participate in the five-T20I series against Australia or the subsequent tour of South Africa due to uncertainty about whether surgery will be required. As a result, seamer Prasidh Krishna was selected as a replacement in the World Cup squad, but has not had the opportunity to play. However, this injury has turned out to be a blessing in disguise for the Indian team, as pacer Mohammed Shami has made a remarkable impact in Pandya’s absence. Shami’s outstanding performance in the ICC World Cup makes him the best Indian bowler.