Hardik Pandya issued code-red by Ravi Shastri after India all-rounder's red-ball practice sparks Test comeback chatter

India all-rounder's red-ball practice sparks Test comeback chatter

Hardik Pandya's recent red-ball practice has sparked speculations about a potential Test comeback for the India all-rounder. Ravi Shastri, the former head coach of the Indian cricket team, has also weighed in on the matter, issuing a "code-red" warning to the selectors.

Shastri believes that if Pandya is not considered for the upcoming Test series against Australia, it would be a "big mistake". He pointed out that Pandya's all-round skills would be invaluable to the team, especially in overseas conditions.

Pandya's Test record

Pandya has played 11 Tests for India, scoring 532 runs at an average of 31.24 and taking 17 wickets at an average of 31.06. His last Test appearance came in September 2018 against England.

Since then, Pandya has focused on his limited-overs career, where he has established himself as one of the best all-rounders in the world. He has been a key member of the Indian team that won the 2019 Cricket World Cup and the 2020 T20 World Cup.

Pandya's fitness concerns

One of the main concerns surrounding Pandya's Test comeback is his fitness. He has had a history of injuries, which have limited his availability in the past.

However, Pandya has been working hard on his fitness and has reportedly shed significant weight in recent months. He has also been bowling long spells in the nets, which suggests that he is ready to handle the rigors of Test cricket.

India's Test team

The Indian Test team is currently in a transition phase, with several senior players having retired in recent years. The team is in need of all-rounders who can contribute with both bat and ball.

Pandya would be a valuable addition to the team, as he can provide balance to the side. He can bat in the middle order, bowl medium-pace, and field in the slips.

Conclusion

Hardik Pandya's recent red-ball practice has sparked speculations about a potential Test comeback for the India all-rounder. Ravi Shastri, the former head coach of the Indian cricket team, has also weighed in on the matter, issuing a "code-red" warning to the selectors.

Pandya has a good Test record and his all-round skills would be invaluable to the team, especially in overseas conditions. However, there are concerns about his fitness, which have limited his availability in the past.

If Pandya can stay fit and overcome his injury concerns, he could be a key player for India in the upcoming Test series against Australia.