Cricket fans who wanted to see Hardik Pandya back on the field will have to wait. According to TOI, Hardik, who was on the verge of being passed fit ahead of the Afghanistan series, has a niggle in his leg. Pandya, who has been training at the CoE, has been told to stop bowling.
“Hardik was operating at full intensity but was instructed to stop bowling after experiencing discomfort in his leg. He will resume training soon, but the series against Afghanistan is too close for a return,” a BCCI source said.
“There are not many issues as far as batting and his movements are concerned, but the CoE has to be convinced entirely before passing him fit.” The veteran all-rounder hasn’t played cricket since the end of the IPL 2026, where he led Mumbai Indians in their final league match against Rajasthan Royals at home.
Nitish Kumar Reddy and Washington Sundar are close to being passed fit. jasprit bumrah could miss the upcoming series as the selectors want the pacer to be fit in time for the Asian Games 2026.
Hardik, who had checked into the Bengaluru-based facility after the IPL, was initially set to play the ODIs against Afghanistan. However, an injury to his quadriceps meant that the player had to spend extended time on the sidelines. He also missed the subsequent tour of England. With the Men in Blue set for a demanding schedule starting this month, it is a wise move for the board to preserve their star all-rounder and get him fully fit before he heads back onto the field.
Krunal Pandya in line for recall
Meanwhile, Krunal Pandya’s name is being discussed for the upcoming three-match T20I series. The 35-year-old could replace Axar Patel, who didn’t have a great time with the bat and ball in the shortest format. Krunal hasn’t played international cricket for five years, but has been making heads turn with his amazing performances for RCB in the IPL.
The selection committee is likely to meet and pick the team for the short series this week. Shreyas Iyer is expected to lead the side, and the team will also witness the return of big names. who missed the Zimbabwe series.