Hardik Pandya won’t be part of the playing XI for the first two Tests against Sri Lanka

Image courtesy of: ESPNcricinfo

India have rested all-rounder Hardik Pandya for the first two Tests of the three-match series against Sri Lanka, which begins on November 16.

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) revealed that the selection committee made the decision as they wanted to ensure Pandya didn’t succumb to an injury ahead of India’s overseas tours.

Since the Champions Trophy in England in June, Pandya has featured in 30 of the 33 matches India has played across all formats.

“Considering Mr Pandya’s heavy recent workload, the decision was made to negate any possibility of a major injury concern. Mr Pandya will undergo a period of strength at conditioning at the National Cricket Academy in Bengaluru,” a statement released by the BCCI said.

However, Pandya may not be the only high-profile player rested during the upcoming Test series against Sri Lanka as captain Virat Kohli could miss the third Test in order to have some time to rest and recuperate in the lead-up to India’s tour of South Africa in January 2018.