WTC Final 2023: India with Shardul Thakur as only Seam-Bowling All-Rounder
India will enter their second World Test Championship Final with Shardul Thakur as the only seam-bowling all-rounder. While Shardul has been an integral part of the Test team, Ricky Ponting believes India are missing an X-Factor like Hardik Pandya against Australia, particularly in seaming conditions. Hardik has made a successful comeback to bowling after his injury and is in a good batting form as well.
Hardik Pandya’s Potential Impact on India’s Performance
Ricky Ponting recently commented on India’s chances in the match, remarking that Hardik Pandya’s presence could be a great asset. The former Australia captain noted that Hardik has been bowling well during the IPL and is in good batting form, making him a valuable asset in a one-off Test match.
Hardik Pandya’s Long Absence from Test Cricket
Hardik Pandya has not played a Test match since the 2018 tour of England. Since then, he has been hampered by back injury troubles, preventing him from representing India in Test cricket.
Conclusion
It remains to be seen whether Hardik Pandya will be able to make a return to Test cricket in time for the WTC Final. In the meantime, India will have to rely on Shardul Thakur as their only seam-bowling all-rounder. Follow India vs Australia World Test Championship Final LIVE Updates on InsideSport.IN.