Australia vs India 2018-19: Hardik Pandya, KL Rahul Out From First ODI: Reports

India’s all-rounder Hardik Pandya and KL Rahul are ruled out from the first One Day International against Australia which will take place at Sydney Cricket Ground. Hardik Pandya and KL Rahul are under the scrutiny for their comments on Koffee With Karan show.

Both the players made disrespectful comments on women during their visit to the show. In fact, Pandya said he got carried away with the theme of the show. However, both these players will now have to bear the repercussions.

It was always on the cards.

A source told PTI that both players are left out from the playing XI. Hardik is a regular member of the playing XI whereas KL Rahul has thus far failed to seal his place in the ODI side.

“The team management has told Pandya that he is not playing tomorrow (Saturday) as they are yet to get a final directive. Rahul, in any case, wasn’t in contention for a first XI berth,” said a source close to the development.

“The team management is waiting for an official communication on whether there is a provisional suspension and if they will be sent back,” he added.

In fact, Pandya and Rahul are expected to get their punishment as the case has drawn fire from all the corners of the cricketing world. CoA chief Vinod Rai had recommended a two-match ban for the dual and it would be interesting to note what will be the punishment of both the players.

Hardik Pandya is criticised more than KL Rahul as his comments were more insulting. Pandya said he carries an image of a womanizer and it was sad to note such a mindset of the player.

Meanwhile, Indian skipper Virat Kohli also didn’t put his weight behind the players. Kohli said that comments were inappropriate and were not in the spirit of the dressing room.