World Cup 2023: Why India replaced Hardik Pandya with Prasidh Krishna? Rahul Dravid explains

On the eve of India’s blockbuster ICC World Cup clash against South Africa in Kolkata, head coach Rahul Dravid explained the rationale behind naming seamer Prasidh Krishna as all-rounder Hardik Pandya’s replacement.

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Pandya was on Saturday ruled out of the remainder of the World Cup with an ankle injury, which he suffered three deliveries into his first over in India’s match against Bangladesh in Pune.

“After Hardik has been injured, we have played with three quicks. In reserves, we had backup for
Spin and all rounder but needed a back up for fast bowler,” Dravid added.

The former India captain, however, admitted India will not have the luxury of a sixth bowling option in the remainder of their campaign.

“Yes, we will not be in a position to have sixth bowling option. But we have a wrong footed inswinging bowler, who can bowl few overs. In fact we were close to giving him (Kohli) an over last game. Crowd wanted that too. Surya can bowl, so can Rohit,” Dravid added.

Dravid claimed Virat Kohli was not thinking about his 49th ODI hundred or his birthday at all.

Indian fans will also be eagerly waiting for Kohli to score the century that will take him level with Indian batting legend Sachin Tendulkar for more centuries in the format.

“Virat Kohli is certainly not thinking about No49 or No 50. Very relaxed and certainly not thinking about birthday and turning an year older,” Dravid told reporters in pre-match press conference in Kolkata.

India and South Africa have been two of the most consistent teams in the World Cup so far and the upcoming clash between the two sides, at Kolkata’s Eden Gardens on Sunday is expected to decide which side finish on top of the table at the end of the league stage.

More to follow