Indian all-rounder Hardik Pandya has reportedly requested the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) not to include him in the squad for the upcoming ODI series against Sri Lanka for personal reasons. This decision came as a surprise, as Pandya was expected to be a key member of the Indian team for the three-match ODI series scheduled from August 2 to August 7.

Pandya to lead India in T20I series against Sri Lanka

While Pandya will be missing the ODI series, he is set to lead the Indian team in the upcoming T20I series against Sri Lanka, which is scheduled to start later this month. This will be Pandya’s first assignment as the T20I captain of the Indian team following Rohit Sharma‘s retirement from the format.

The BCCI and the team management are reportedly considering two options for the T20I captaincy – Pandya or Suryakumar Yadav. Both players have been in impressive form and have shown strong leadership qualities. The decision on the T20I captain is expected to be announced soon as India prepares for the three-match T20I series against Sri Lanka.

Also READ: Saba Karim names two potential candidates for India’s T20I captaincy

Pandya’s heroics in the T20 World Cup and warm welcome in Baroda

Hardik Pandya’s absence from the ODI series against Sri Lanka comes after his stellar performance in the T20 World Cup 2024, where he played a crucial role in India’s title triumph. Pandya’s all-round abilities and his ability to deliver in crunch situations have made him an indispensable part of the Indian team.

Following the T20 World Cup victory, Pandya received a grand welcome in his hometown, Baroda, where thousands of fans gathered to celebrate his achievement. The celebrations in Baroda showcased the immense popularity and admiration that Pandya enjoys among his fans and the cricketing fraternity.

VIDEO | Cricketer Hardik Pandya (@hardikpandya7) attends a roadshow in Vadodara to celebrate Team India’s T20 World Cup victory. pic.twitter.com/Qp4rFg3Mxl

— Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) July 15, 2024

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