Vivo IPL 2021: Zaheer Khan explains why Hardik Pandya didn’t bowl against RCB in the IPL opener.
Vivo IPL 2021: Mumbai Indians director of cricket operations Zaheer Khan on Monday explained why Indian all-rounder Hardik Pandya was not given over to bowl. The all-rounder was having some shoulder concern that is the reason why he didn’t bowl in the first game against RCB however Khan said that he will soon contribute to the team’s success with the ball too.
Rohit Sharma’s Mumbai Indians failed to break the curse of losing the opening game once again as they lose to Virat Kohli’s RCB in Chennai.
“Hardik, as a whole package is always of great value, everyone knows that. It was a workload related thing in the previous game,” Zaheer said at the pre-match conference ahead of their game against Kolkata Knight Riders.
“He bowled in the whole England series, in the last ODI he bowled about nine overs and that is why in consultation with the physio, we had to take that approach.
“There was a bit of concern around his shoulder but that is not an issue to worry about now. He will surely get to bowl very soon and contribute with the ball in hand too.”
Former Indian bowler Zaheer Khan further said that Kieron Pollard is the sixth bowling option for us right now.
“Pollard is our sixth bowling option. We are not concerned about anything in that department.”
Quinton de Kock up for the Selection for the next game:
South African opener Quinton de Kock will be available for the selection in the next game said, Zaheer Khan.
“Quinton has completed his quarantine and had a good practice session yesterday. So, he is available for the selection for tomorrow’s game against KKR.”
Australian opener Chris Lynn scored a quick 49 runs in the first game for MI against RCB however it is still a doubt whether he will retain his place in the team or Quinton de Kock will replace him in the playing11.
“It is a good headache to have as a management, like I was earlier saying we are lucky and fortunate to have such a squad where people are waiting to grab those opportunities, and pushing each other, so that’s the exciting part.”
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