(Image source from: Tribuneindia.com)
In a recent update, all-rounder Hardik Pandya’s chances of returning to international cricket this week have faced a hurdle after he was sidelined for at least two weeks due to a quadriceps injury. Pandya had been in top shape after arriving at the BCCI Centre of Excellence earlier this month to get cleared for the back spasms he experienced during IPL 2026. He was initially given the green light to participate in the upcoming three-match ODI series against Afghanistan, but was ruled out just a few hours later. This new injury means that the 32-year-old has “no chance at all" of playing in the series. A BCCI source mentioned, “With three weeks for healing, there is simply no way he can take part in the ODI series since his recovery process will not be finished. " As per a report, the medical team has recommended that the all-rounder skip “strain" and “weight-bearing" tasks for now. He will keep undergoing rehabilitation at the CoE in Bengaluru and won’t be joining the India team in Dharamsala.
“There has been a very recent setback. He has a mild leg sprain that is causing some discomfort. It's not a long-term issue, but the medical team has suggested he steer clear of any strain or weight-bearing for the next few days. Hardik will remain in Bengaluru, working with CoE physiotherapists and trainers during his recovery,” a BCCI official shared with the media. The report also mentioned that the team management is aware of this situation. The last time Pandya played an ODI for India was in the final of the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy, where India won against New Zealand. Since that time, he has missed three ODI series – against Australia (away), South Africa, and New Zealand (both at home).
According to reports, he was not given clearance to bowl 10 overs by the CoE before the New Zealand ODI series earlier this year, which resulted in his exclusion from the squad. The three-match ODI series against Afghanistan is set to start on Saturday in Dharamsala, with games scheduled in Lucknow and Chennai on June 17 and 20, respectively.
