Hardik Pandya expresses displeasure with facilities during Windies tour

Indian cricket team's T20I captain, Hardik Pandya, has found himself in the spotlight for two reasons - his alleged poor captaincy and his recent complaints about the facilities provided during the West Indies tour.

The team suffered defeats in the first two T20 matches against the West Indies, but managed to secure a win in the third match, keeping their series hopes alive. Pandya has faced significant criticism from fans and former players for not utilizing the skills of spinner Yuzvendra Chahal effectively. Chahal, who took two wickets in three overs during the second match and played a crucial role in India's comeback, was not given the chance to bowl a fourth over.

Commentator Aakash Chopra expressed his disappointment on social media, stating, "Chahal was the best Indian spinner...his third over (16th) spun the match in India's favor. He should've bowled a fourth over - ideally the 18th, and if not that, definitely the 19th." Former all-rounder Irfan Pathan shared a similar sentiment, saying, "It's baffling to me that Chahal didn't complete his quota of 4 overs in both games."

On the other hand, Pandya criticized the Cricket West Indies (CWI) Board for not providing basic necessities to the Indian team during the tour. Although he did not elaborate on the specific grievances, it is understood that the lack of quality food was a major concern. Sources within the Indian board revealed that the players did not receive the food they had requested, especially on game days.

"The standard of food wasn't up to the mark, and other players were also upset about it," stated a source within the Indian board. After winning the three-match ODI series 2-1, Pandya expressed his dissatisfaction with the facilities during the presentation.

"This was one of the nicest grounds we have played on. Things can be better when we come to the West Indies next time….Last year also, some hiccups happened. I think it’s time for West Indies Cricket to take note of it. We don’t ask for luxury, but we need some basic necessities taken care of. Other than that, I really enjoyed coming here and playing some good cricket," Pandya said at the presentation event. Despite repeated attempts to get a response, the Windies cricket board remained tight-lipped. (Bipin Dani)