Hardik Pandya and Jasprit Bumrah (Source: AFP)
India is all set to suffer a massive blow ahead of the Afghanistan tour in September 2026 and the Asian Games 2026, with the availability of Jasprit Bumrah and Hardik Pandya still uncertain.
Afghanistan are scheduled to host India in a three-match T20I series from September 13 to 17, with all three matches set to be played at the Arun Jaitley Cricket Stadium in New Delhi.
It is important to note that the Asian Games 2026 will begin on September 19, with the Men’s fixture scheduled from September 24 to October 3.
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Jasprit Bumrah And Hardik Pandya's Fitness Remains A Major Concern For IND vs AFG T20Is
Jasprit Bumrah is currently undergoing rehabilitation at the BCCI Centre of Excellence after dealing with left-knee inflammation and swelling. On the other hand, Hardik Pandya is also working his way back to full fitness.
The star all-rounder initially suffered a left quadriceps strain and later developed discomfort in his right calf while increasing his bowling workload.
According to the latest reports from Sports Tak, there are no updates on Hardik Pandya and Jasprit Bumrah's injuries and recovery timeline.
With little time left for India vs Afghanistan T20Is, there is also a high chance that both the star players might miss the much-awaited series.
In the same reports, it was mentioned that Prince Yadav has recovered from his injury and will likely be picked for the IND vs AFG T20Is.
"There is suspense over Jasprit Bumrah and Hardik Pandya, and no confirmation yet on whether they will be available for the Afghanistan series or Asian Games (Sports Tak)."
Jasprit Bumrah's Injury Timeline In 2025–26
Jasprit Bumrah's 2025–26 injury setback began with a lower-back problem during the Border-Gavaskar Trophy in January 2025. He later made his return after rehabilitation, but another injury concern emerged in 2026 involving his left knee.
January 4, 2025: Back injury
- Bumrah suffered a stress-related lower-back injury during the fifth and final Test of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy against Australia in Sydney.
Mid-January 2025: Rest and Rehabilitation Advised
- Following medical assessment, Bumrah was advised to take at least five weeks of rest.
Early February 2025: Further scans in Bengaluru
- Bumrah travelled to Bengaluru for further medical examinations and scans.
Mid-February 2025: Champions Trophy setback
- Bumrah's recovery did not progress quickly enough for him to be included in India's final Champions Trophy squad.
March 14, 2025: IPL 2025 start ruled out
- Mumbai Indians confirmed that Bumrah would not be available at the beginning of IPL 2025 as he continued his recovery.
Early April 2025: Return to competitive cricket
- After completing his rehabilitation and receiving medical clearance, Bumrah returned to action for Mumbai Indians. His comeback marked an important step in his recovery, although his workload had to be managed carefully after the back problem.
Mid-2026: Left knee injury
- Bumrah later suffered an impact injury to his left knee while fielding during the England ODI series in Cardiff. The problem was particularly concerning because it was linked to previous knee issues. The setback affected his availability and eventually ruled him out of the Test series against Sri Lanka.
Hardik Pandya's Injury Timeline In 2025–26
Hardik Pandya has also experienced a difficult period with injuries.
September 2025: Left quadriceps injury during Asia Cup
- Hardik Pandya suffered a left quadriceps injury during India's Super Four match against Sri Lanka in the 2025 Asia Cup. The injury forced him to leave the field and meant that he could not take part in the Asia Cup final.
October–November 2025: Rehabilitation at BCCI Centre of Excellence
- Hardik Pandya began an extensive rehabilitation programme at the BCCI Centre of Excellence in Bengaluru.
April–May 2026: Back spasms during IPL period
- Hardik faced another fitness setback during IPL 2026, with persistent back spasms affecting his availability for Mumbai Indians.
June 2, 2026: Returns to BCCI Centre of Excellence
- Hardik Pandya reported to the BCCI Centre of Excellence in Bengaluru. He underwent fitness clearances and simulation tests as the medical team evaluated whether he was ready for his next international assignment.
June 10, 2026: Fresh left quadriceps setback
- He picked up a fresh left quadriceps strain/low-grade leg sprain, forcing him to miss the ODI series against Afghanistan.
August 8, 2026: Right calf pain during training
- Hardik Pandya suffered another minor setback while training.
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