All-rounder Hardik Pandya and batsman KL Rahul were dropped from India’s squad for the opening One-Day International (ODI) against Australia at the Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG). This comes after Committee of Administrators (CoA) member Diana Edulji recommended a suspension pending inquiry for their controversial comments on women during a TV show, reports PTI.

”The team management has told Pandya that he is not playing tomorrow as they are yet to get a final directive. Rahul, in any case, wasn't in contention for a first XI berth," A BCCI source was quoted as saying by news gathering agency PTI. Diana Edulji Recommends Indefinite Suspension of Hardik Pandya and KL Rahul Following Koffee With Karan 6 Controversy

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

The calls from suspension of Pandya and Rahul grew ever since the duo made misogynist comments on famous celebrity talk show Koffee With Karan hosted by director-producer Karan Johar. Hardik Pandya and KL Rahul May Be Suspended Over KWK 6 Controversy: 5 Players Who Can Replace the Tainted Duo in IND vs AUS ODI Series 2019

It has been reported that the duo could face a two-match ban. Following the outcry, Pandya tweeted an apology saying, “ After reflecting on my comments on Koffee with Karan, I would like to apologise to everyone concerned who I may have hurt in a way. Honestly, I got a bit carried away with the nature of the show. In no way did I mean to disrespect of hurt anyone’s sentiments. Respect.” Rahul, reportedly, sent a separate e-mail seeking an apology.

India takes on Australia in the first ODI on Saturday, January 12. All-rounder Ravindra Jadeja is likely to replace Pandya in the playing XI.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Jan 11, 2019 04:05 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).