Hardik Pandya’s fitness has been a big worry for India as they prepare for next year’s ODI World Cup. The star all-rounder has been dealing with persistent injuries since IPL 2026. He came close to making a return on a couple of occasions during this period, but one injury after another made things difficult for him.
Pandya was picked in the India A squad for the 50-over series against Australia A last month, but sustained a shin injury, which further delayed his return and ruled him out of the New Zealand tour. To manage his recovery, Pandya moved his base to Bengaluru after the end of the IPL and now trains at the Centre of Excellence there.
India’s ODI captain Shubman Gill emphasised the value Pandya brings to the side, pointing out that not many players can offer the same range of skills. The all-rounder gives the captain the flexibility to use him in different situations, especially with the ball. He can bowl with both the new and old balls, giving India more options throughout various phases of the game. Gill said the two have had multiple conversations about his role.
“We have had multiple conversations, he is a quality player – not many in the world have what he can do. Hopefully he plays some domestic and gets back. Unfortunate he got a niggle before India A match,” Gill said in the press conference, ahead of the first ODI against New Zealand.
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‘No 7-8 will be taken care of’
Gill believes Pandya’s return will also address India’s concerns around the lower-middle order, particularly the No. 7 and 8 slots. The India captain said he is happy with the batting group heading into next year’s ODI World Cup.
“Whenever Hardik bhai comes back, no 7-8 will also be taken care of. Happy with batting group leading up to the ODI World Cup,” he said.
Apart from Hardik, India will also be without Jasprit Bumrah, who has been included in the Test squad but left out of the ODIs to handle his workload. Gill and KL Rahul will also miss the last two matches of the series as they turn their attention to the upcoming Tests.
The five-match ODI series will begin at Eden Park in Auckland on November 4 and conclude on November 15 in Mount Maunganui.