Indian all-rounder Krunal Pandya will return home after sustaining a groin injury in England while playing for Warwickshire County Cricket Club against Nottinghamshire in the
Royal London Cup. The Warwickshire club confirmed the news on Monday and further informed that the Indian all-rounder will not be available for selection
for remaining matches in the tournament.
Krunal Pandya was roped in by the county team last month to participate in the 50-over competition. Notably, Krunal sustained an injury on August 17 while batting and didn't return to the field during Nottinghamshire's innings. Pandya was also not part of Warwickshire's playing XI against Durham on Sunday (August 21). "Following consultation with doctors, Pandya is likely to miss three weeks and therefore would not be available for selection should be Bears reach the knockout stage," read the statement. Paul Farbrance, Director of Warwickshire Cricket club expressed his disappointment over losing Krunal Pandya for the remaining of the matches but extended his best wishes to the all-rounder.
"We enjoyed his services at the club and in no time, he became an integral part of the squad. It’s frustrating to lose such a quality player. He is such an exciting player to be in the group and was a role model for many. I am sure younger members in the group would have learnt a lot from him on and off the pitch," said Paul. He further asserted that Warwickshire will not sign any replacement for Krunal. Speaking of his short stint at Warwickshire club, Krunal played five matches in which he scored 134 runs at an average of 33.50 including 74 off 82 deliveries in the tied match against Surrey at The Oval.
He also picked nine wickets at an average of 25 with his left-arm spin bowling, including consecutive three-wicket hauls against Sussex and Leicestershire. Apart from Krunal Pandya,
pacer Md. Siraj has recently been signed up for the last three matches of the County Championship season in Division 1 and is likely to join the club soon.