Vijay Hazare Trophy 2024-25: Hardik Pandya absent from Baroda’s squad for initial stages

Star Indian all-rounder Hardik Pandya will miss the initial stages of the Vijay Hazare Trophy (VHT) 2024-25, India’s premier 50-over domestic tournament, which began on December 21. The Baroda Cricket Association (BCA) confirmed that Pandya will only join the team for the knockout rounds, provided Baroda qualifies.

Pandya’s absence and return plans:

• Kiran More, a member of the BCA’s Cricket Improvement Committee, stated, “He will play from the knockouts; he has informed us.”
• Pandya has not played a 50-over match since October 19, 2023, when he suffered an ankle injury during the ODI World Cup against Bangladesh.
• He recently participated in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy (SMAT), scoring 246 runs and taking six wickets, helping Baroda reach the semifinals.

Baroda’s challenges in Group E:

Led by Krunal Pandya, Hardik’s elder brother, Baroda faces stiff competition in Group E, which includes strong teams like Kerala, Bengal, and Madhya Pradesh. Critics believe Hardik’s absence could affect Baroda’s chances of advancing, especially in the challenging group stage.

Baroda squad for VHT 2024-25:

• Shashwat Rawat, Bhanu Pania, Parth Kohli, Jyotsnil Singh, Ninad Ashvinkumar Rathva, Shivalik Sharma, Krunal Pandya, Mahesh Pithiya, Raj Limbani, Atit Sheth, Vishnu Solanki, Babashafi Pathan, Lukman Meriwala, Bhargav Bhatt, Akash Maharaj Singh, Amit Passi, Lakshit Toksiya.

Importance of Pandya’s return to the format:

Pandya’s reentry into the 50-over format could be pivotal for Baroda and the national team, with the ICC Champions Trophy scheduled for 2025. Indian selectors are keen on ensuring domestic participation for national players, and Pandya’s performance could reaffirm his place in the squad as a key all-rounder.

Baroda will look to leverage its experienced players and young talents in the group stages as they aim to secure a spot in the knockout rounds where Pandya is expected to bolster their chances.