A fresh Hardik Pandya injury has delayed the India all-rounder’s return to competitive cricket.
Pandya has reportedly been ruled out of India A’s upcoming 50-over matches against Australia A.
ESPNcricinfo reported that the all-rounder suffered a shin injury and has been advised to rest for 15 days.
The setback comes just weeks before India’s next ODI assignment.
Hardik Pandya Injury Delays Australia A Comeback
Pandya had earned a place in India A’s squad for three one-day matches against Australia A.
The series is scheduled to begin on October 6 in Puducherry.
However, his selection was subject to a fitness clearance.
The matches were expected to provide an important test of his bowling fitness.
India particularly wanted to assess whether Pandya could bowl his full quota of 10 overs.
Pandya Still Experiencing Pain While Bowling
According to the report, Pandya has continued to experience pain while bowling.
The latest issue has now forced him to step away from the Australia A series.
His absence could affect his preparations for India’s upcoming ODI schedule.
India are scheduled to begin a five-match ODI tour of New Zealand on November 4.
Therefore, Pandya’s availability for that series remains uncertain.
Long Injury Layoff Continues
Pandya has not played competitive cricket since late May.
During that period, he has spent considerable time recovering at the BCCI Centre of Excellence in Bengaluru.
His recent fitness problems have followed several setbacks.
He initially suffered back spasms during the IPL.
Later, he sustained a leg strain at the Centre of Excellence before India’s ODI series against Afghanistan in June.
As a result, the all-rounder has faced continued questions over his ability to maintain bowling fitness.
India Monitoring Pandya Ahead of ODI World Cup
Pandya has not played a 50-over international since the ICC Champions Trophy final in March 2025.
The latest Hardik Pandya injury adds another concern for India as they prepare for a busy ODI schedule.
The team will continue monitoring his recovery before making decisions about his return.
The 2027 ODI World Cup is also scheduled for October and November next year.
Therefore, maintaining Pandya’s fitness could remain an important part of India’s preparations for the tournament.
For now, his immediate priority is recovery from the latest shin problem before returning to competitive cricket.
