Star Indian all-rounder Hardik Pandya will represent Baroda in the 2024 Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy (SMAT), playing under the captaincy of his older brother, Krunal Pandya. The tournament begins on November 23, just one day before the IPL 2024 mega auction in Jeddah.
This will be Hardik’s return to domestic cricket after a long break. His last appearance for Baroda was in the 2018-19 Ranji Trophy, and his most recent SMAT match was in January 2016. That match, a final against Uttar Pradesh, was a turning point in Hardik’s career, occurring just days before his T20I debut for India.
Hardik’s absence from domestic cricket in recent years was due to conflicting international commitments and recurring injuries. However, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has recently made it mandatory for centrally contracted players to participate in domestic tournaments when possible.
This policy has paved the way for Hardik’s inclusion in the Baroda squad for SMAT, ensuring his involvement with his state team. Baroda, under Krunal’s leadership, had a strong performance in the previous SMAT season, reaching the final before falling to Punjab in Mohali.
Hardik last played domestic cricket in 2018-19
Hardik’s inclusion is expected to strengthen their prospects in a tough Group B, which includes strong teams like Tamil Nadu, Gujarat, and Karnataka, as well as Uttarakhand, Sikkim, and Tripura.
Hardik’s decision to play comes at a pivotal time. Last month, he was retained as captain of Mumbai Indians in the IPL, while Krunal was released by Lucknow Super Giants and will enter the upcoming auction.
Hardik also recently played in the T20I series in South Africa and has been actively participating in Mumbai Indians’ training sessions, highlighting his readiness for the new season.
Baroda has been in excellent form this domestic season, leading Group A in the first phase of the Ranji Trophy with 27 points. With Hardik joining the squad, the team is set to strengthen their lineup and aims for a strong showing in the SMAT.
The return of the Pandya brothers to the field together is sure to excite fans and marks a significant moment for Baroda as they pursue domestic success.
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