Indian middle-order batsman Hanuma Vihari believes Hardik Pandya needs to return to domestic red-ball cricket and play Ranji Trophy matches to revive his Test career.
Pandya’s Test Drought
Hardik Pandya hasn’t played Test cricket since August 2018, focusing on white-ball formats due to injury concerns and team management’s decisions.
Vihari’s Verdict
Vihari emphasized the importance of domestic cricket experience for Pandya’s Test comeback:
“Hardik needs to play Ranji Trophy to get accustomed to red-ball cricket’s demands. 2-3 matches will help him regain rhythm.”
Ranji Trophy: The Perfect Platform
Vihari cited the Ranji Trophy’s competitiveness and challenging conditions as ideal for Pandya’s preparation:
“Ranji Trophy exposes you to various situations, pitches, and opposition. It’ll help Hardik fine-tune his skills.”
Pandya’s Recent Form
Pandya’s impressive white-ball performances have sparked hopes of a Test return:
- 633 runs at 37.67 average and 15 wickets in 15 ODIs (2022-2023)
- 334 runs at 27.83 average and 12 wickets in 10 T20Is (2022-2023)
Experts’ Views
Former cricketers and experts agree with Vihari’s assessment:
- “Ranji Trophy will help Hardik regain Test fitness.” – Sunil Gavaskar
- “Pandya needs to prove himself in red-ball cricket.” – Harbhajan Singh
