Hardik Pandya, Indian all-rounder, was notably overlooked for the captaincy of India's T20I team, a decision that stirred considerable discussion. The primary reason for his exclusion was his history of recurring injuries. The management sought a leader who could ensure consistent availability, and Hardik’s injury concerns made him a less reliable choice for the role. 

They opted for Suryakumar Yadav who has a proven track record of fitness. Ahead of India’s three-match T20I series, Yadav was handed India’s T20I captaincy reins, a role that was vacated after regular skipper Rohit Sharma announced his retirement from T20 international at the end of T20I World Cup 2024 where India registered title victory.  Hardik Pandya’s role was immense in India’s title victory, moreover he also served as deputy to Rohit Sharma. 

Giving his take, former Indian cricketer and head coach Ravi Shastri said that Pandya should continue to play T20Is to prove his fitness.

“I think (it's) very important that he continues to play. I believe match fitness is very important. So whatever T20I cricket there is, he should play as much as he can. And if he feels strong and fit, then obviously he comes into the side for the one-day game as well,” Shastri said on the ICC review. 

“But then again, the bowling becomes important. If you have someone coming and bowling just three overs in where you have to bowl 10 in a one-day game, then the balance of the side takes a hit. If you can bowl consistently eight to 10 overs every game and then bat the way he does, I think he'll play in one-day cricket as well.”

Shastri also noted that Pandya’s recent performances will motivate him enough to get back to full fitness. 

“So I think it's up to him really, more than anything else. He understands his body better than anyone. And I'm sure, this will inspire him, especially with the way he did in the World Cup, the way he performed at the right times for India and the World Cup, so that should really get him going. He shouldn't need any motivation to get his fitness right at the top there.”