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'Hardik Pandya is getting injured without playing' - Irfan Pathan highlights major concern over star all-rounder amid IND vs WI 2026 ODIs

Former cricketer Irfan Pathan has expressed deep worry regarding Hardik Pandya's ongoing fitness struggles, noting that the star all-rounder has encountered fresh health setbacks even while sidelined from competitive action. Pandya is currently completing rehabilitation at the BCCI Centre of Excellence following a shin injury that emerged during fitness testing in September, adding to a series of physical troubles that began during the Indian Premier League in May.

Pathan pointed out that these recurring problems complicate planning for the selection committee and team management, who must now focus on developing backup options.

To address the absence of their primary all-rounder, Pathan emphasized the necessity of preparing alternative choices such as Nitish Kumar Reddy to maintain proper squad balance. Reddy has recently returned from his own physical issues and showed good form during recent T20I fixtures against Afghanistan before appearing in the opening ODI against the West Indies.

Pathan highlighted that Reddy possesses a strong work ethic and an increased bowling pace, making regular playing time crucial as the team monitors two fast-bowling all-rounders.

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