New Delhi: India have suffered a significant setback ahead of the ODI series against England, with star all-rounder Hardik Pandya ruled out due to injury. According to reports, Pandya’s recovery has been hampered by a combination of back spasms and a subsequent leg strain, forcing him to miss another important assignment for the national team.
Pandya had reported to the BCCI Center of Excellence (CoE) after IPL 2026 to recover from recurring back issues. The Mumbai Indians captain was initially expected to make his comeback during the ODI series against Afghanistan after receiving fitness clearance. However, a fresh injury setback delayed his return, and he was eventually ruled out of the three-match series.
Now, the injury concerns have extended further, with Pandya set to miss the upcoming ODI series against England as well. His absence is likely to impact India’s team balance, given his crucial role as a pace-bowling all-rounder and middle-order finisher.
While Pandya’s unavailability is a major blow, it could open the door for young all-rounder Nitish Kumar Reddy to strengthen his claim as India’s long-term backup option. The Sunrisers Hyderabad star featured in two matches during the Afghanistan ODI series and made an immediate impact, picking up two wickets in the opening game. Although he missed the second ODI due to thigh soreness, he returned for the series finale in Chennai and remains firmly in contention for the England assignment.
The BCCI is yet to announce India’s ODI squad for the England series, scheduled to be played from July 14 to July 19. While squads for the Ireland and England T20I series have already been unveiled, the ODI squad announcement is still awaited.
Kohli Set for Fitness Assessment
There is encouraging news for India on the batting front. Former captain Virat Kohli is expected to return for the England ODI series after recovering from a hamstring injury suffered during the IPL 2026 final.
According to reports, Kohli will report to the BCCI Center of Excellence on June 22 for a detailed fitness assessment. The veteran batsman missed the Afghanistan ODI series due to the injury, but if he receives the green signal from the medical team, he is likely to be available for selection against England.
With Hardik Pandya sidelined and Virat Kohli nearing full fitness, India’s squad selection for the England series is set to attract significant attention in the coming weeks.
Comments are closed.