India’s wicketkeeper, KL Rahul, has assumed the role of vice-captain for the remainder of the ICC World Cup 2023 following Hardik Pandya’s exclusion from the tournament due to an ankle injury.

Hardik Pandya, an all-rounder, sustained a left ankle injury while bowling during India’s fourth World Cup match against Bangladesh. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) medical team had been monitoring his condition, and he missed the subsequent three games against New Zealand, England, and Sri Lanka before being officially ruled out.

KL Rahul, who made a comeback to the team after a nearly six-month absence due to injury, has been fulfilling the wicketkeeping duties behind the stumps and providing stability in the middle order by batting at No. 5.

Hardik Pandya’s Comment on His Exit

Hardik Pandya shared his thoughts on missing the remainder of the World Cup, saying, “Tough to digest the fact that I will miss out on the remaining part of the World Cup. I’ll be with the team, in spirit, cheering them on every ball of every game. Thanks for all the wishes, the love, and the support has been incredible. This team is special, and I’m sure we’ll make everyone proud.”

Prasidh Krishna Steps In

Fast bowler Prasidh Krishna has been selected to replace Hardik Pandya in the Indian squad for the remaining matches of the tournament.

According to sources from the BCCI familiar with developments at the National Cricket Academy in Bengaluru, Hardik Pandya had resumed his training, but the swelling on his left ankle resurfaced, making it impossible for him to participate in the crucial phase of the tournament.

The BCCI had three standby players named for the tournament—left-handed batter Tilak Varma, wicketkeeper-batter Sanju Samson, and pacer Prasidh Krishna. Ultimately, Prasidh was chosen, with the rationale being that the team would miss Hardik’s bowling more than his batting, and Prasidh Krishna, the Karnataka pacer, was considered the most suitable replacement.