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Hardik Pandya for Mumbai Indians - (Source: AFP)
In a significant development, India’s star all-rounder Hardik Pandya is set to miss upcoming white-ball series against Sri Lanka and Zimbabwe as well. The MI captain, who is recovering from a shin injury, is far from regaining full fitness and will sit on the bench for entire 2026.
A report from Dainik Jagran journalist Abhishek Tripathi said Hardik Pandya won’t be fit in time for Sri Lanka T20Is in December, followed by a Zimbabwe series at home in January. The right-arm seamer will most likely get the green light from the doctors ahead of IPL 2027, which will mark exactly a year since his last professional appearance.
Hardik Pandya’s Recovery Plan Revealed
The Abhishek Tripathi report revealed that Hardik Pandya will start jogging in three weeks’ time, which is why he is not part of the upcoming New Zealand tour. After which, his running load will be increased for eight weeks, which is two months.
In January, India will play a five-match Test series against Australia, and since Hardik is not part of the Test setup, the 33-year-old won’t be seen in action before IPL 2027.
Hardik Pandya's Injury A Big Blow To India's World Cup Plans
The latest development is massive blow to India's ODI World Cup 2027 plans. Despite injury concerns, Hardik continues to be Men in Blue's top choice among all-rounders. However, his delayed return has got the management sweating in panic.
Initially, Hardik Pandya checked in at CoE for back related issues and was all set to return for Afghanistan ODIs. However, he dealt fresh setback at the CoE, which pushed his return for West Indies ODIs.
The star all-rounder was named in India A squad for Australia series, but a latest shin injury ruled him out of West Indies ODIs and in fact, the upcoming New Zealand series as well.
At present, India are sweating because Hardik is facing a race against time to be fit in time for marquee 50-over event.
Rishabh Pant And Prasidh Krishna's Recovery Plan Revealed
The same report also shed light on Rishabh Pant and Prasidh Krishna's recovery plan. Notably, Pant, who is recovering from a back spasm, will start light skill training from next week.
For Prasidh Krishna, he has been named in India's Squad for New Zealand ODIs but is subject to fitness. A decision will be made on the right-arm seamer after match simulation.
