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Xtra Time Web Desk: Team India all rounder Hardik Pandya has opted out of the forthcoming tour to South Africa. According to a report in Inside Sport, Hardik has requested BCCI for some time off to concentrate on fitness and return as an all-rounder, not just batsman.

“Yes, he has requested for some time off and not to consider him for selection. He will undergo recovery and follow BCCI and NCA’s rehabilitation protocol for the back injury. I can’t say when he will return. We are hopeful that he will be available for the West Indies series. But at this time, it’s difficult to say,” a senior BCCI official told InsideSport.

Hardik has been the centre of discussion during India’s unsuccessful campaign in the recently concluded T20 World Cup in UAE. A lot of questions was asked about his bowling and fitness. BCCI had directed the all rounder from Baroda to report to the National Cricket Academy (NCA) and pass a fitness test for him to be the eligible for selection for the tour to South Africa. However, Hardik chose to ignore the diktat as he wanted time to continue with the progress he has had with the back injury.

As per the report Hardik will take some time off and recover at home before joining the NCA’s rehabilitation program in due course.