Indian cricket team head coach Gautam Gambhir has given a big update regarding the return of star all-rounder Hardik Pandya to Team India. Gambhir clearly said that Pandya is not in a position to bowl 10 overs in an ODI match at this time. Pandya has not played much cricket in the last few months, so the team management does not want to rush his comeback. India has big expectations from Pandya in ODI cricket in the coming times.
After the third T20 match against Afghanistan, Gambhir said, “Hardik Pandya cannot bowl 10 overs at the moment. We do not want to bring him back to international cricket in a hurry. When they are fit, both Hardik and Nitish are likely to play.” It is clear from Gambhir’s statement that his bowling fitness will play an important role in Pandya’s comeback. The team wants to use him not just as a batsman but as a full all-rounder.
out for a long time due to injuries
Hardik Pandya has not played any professional cricket since IPL 2026. He was selected in the Indian team for the ODI series against Afghanistan in June, but suffered a leg injury before the series started. Earlier, he was out of four matches of Mumbai Indians due to back spasm. After this, Pandya was working on fitness and conditioning at BCCI’s Center of Excellence, where he suffered another injury.
Fitness test will be held next week
Pandya has been included in the India A team for the ODI series against Australia A in Puducherry, but his selection is subject to final fitness clearance. His fitness test is expected next week. The selectors are being cautious about his return, because Pandya’s role is very important in the balance of the ODI team. After getting fit, along with him, Nitish Kumar Reddy is also likely to get a chance in the playing eleven.