In a late development, all-rounder Hardik Pandya’s hopes of making his international return later this week have suffered a setback after he was ruled out for at least two weeks with a quadriceps strain.
Pandya had been at the peak of his fitness after reporting to the BCCI Centre of Excellence (CoE) earlier this month to receive clearance for the back spasms he had been dealing with during IPL 2026. He was initially cleared to play in the upcoming three-match ODI series against Afghanistan but was ruled out just hours later.
The latest injury leaves the 32-year-old with “absolutely no chance” of featuring in the series. “With three weeks for recovery, there is absolutely no chance of him playing the ODI series as his rehabilitation will not be complete,” a BCCI source was quoted as saying by news agency PTI.
According to The Times of India, the medical team has advised the all-rounder to avoid “strain” and “weight-bearing” activities for now. He will continue his rehabilitation at the CoE in Bengaluru and will not join the India squad in Dharamsala.
“There has been a very late setback. He sustained a low-grade, mild leg sprain causing some tenderness. It’s nothing long-term, but medical staff advised him to avoid any strain or weight-bearing for the next few days. Hardik will continue to stay in Bengaluru, consulting with CoE physios and trainers during his recovery phase,” a BCCI official told the publication.
The report also added that the team management has been informed of the development.
Pandya’s Wait Continues
The final of the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy, where India defeated New Zealand, remains the last time Pandya played an ODI for India. Since then, he has missed three ODI series – against Australia (away), South Africa, and New Zealand (both at home).
Reports suggest he was not cleared to bowl 10 overs by the CoE ahead of the New Zealand ODI series earlier this year, which led to his omission from the squad.
The three-match ODI series against Afghanistan begins on Saturday in Dharamsala, followed by games in Lucknow and Chennai on June 17 and 20, respectively.
