Hardik Pandya Last Domestic Match (Source: X.com/@hardikpandya7 & AFP)
India ODI captain Shubman Gill has indicated that Hardik Pandya will have to play domestic cricket before returning to the national team.
Speaking ahead of India's first ODI against New Zealand, Gill confirmed that the team management remains in regular contact with the all-rounder and is hopeful of his comeback.
He also highlighted Hardik's rare ability to contribute with both bat and ball, adding that his return would strengthen India's lower order.
With the 2027 World Cup in focus, Gill believes domestic cricket will provide Hardik with the opportunity to regain match fitness before making his India comeback.
Hardik Pandya's Recent Struggles With Injuries
Hardik Pandya's fitness concerns have persisted since his ankle injury during the 2023 ODI World Cup.
He suffered a quadriceps strain during the 2025 Asia Cup and missed the final. In 2026, back spasms during the IPL were followed by a quadriceps strain and further leg issues, including a right-shin injury. These setbacks have repeatedly delayed his return to international cricket.
.jpg)
When Was The Last Time Hardik Pandya Played Domestic Cricket In India?
Hardik Pandya last played a domestic match in India on January 8, 2026, when Baroda faced Chandigarh in the Vijay Hazare Trophy 2025-26 at the Niranjan Shah Stadium in Rajkot. He delivered an impressive all-round performance, scoring 75 runs off just 31 balls in Baroda's first innings.
Hardik's explosive knock included two fours and nine sixes, taking his strike rate to 241.94. He came in during the middle order and helped Baroda post a massive total of 391 runs in 49.1 overs. Jitesh Sharma also contributed with 73 off 33 balls, while Priyanshu Moliya top-scored with 113.
Hardik then made an impact with the ball. He bowled 10 overs and picke up three wickets while conceding 66 runs at an economy rate of 6.60.
His victims included Arjun Azad, Shivam Bhambri and Vishu Kashyap. Chandigarh were eventually bowled out for 242 in 40 overs, giving Baroda a 149-run victory.
The match was part of a productive Vijay Hazare Trophy campaign for Hardik. He finished the competition with 208 runs in two innings at an average of 104.00 and a strike rate of 169.11, including a century and a half-century. He also claimed three wickets in the Baroda-Chandigarh fixture.
.jpg?type=mq "List of Records Virat Kohli can break")
.jpg?type=mq "India predicted playing XI")
