Photo via The Times of India

'Hopefully he plays some domestic': Shubman Gill gives update on Hardik Pandya's comeback

Indian captain Shubman Gill addressed speculation around Hardik Pandya’s return to the national team during a press conference ahead of India’s ODI series against New Zealand. Pandya, who last played for India in the 2026 T20 World Cup final in June, has been sidelined from multiple international assignments, including the Afghanistan series, tours of Ireland and England, and the recent home ODI series against the West Indies.

Gill confirmed team management has maintained regular contact with Pandya, emphasizing his irreplaceable value as a dynamic all-rounder. However, the captain noted Pandya suffered a minor injury before an India A match, delaying his comeback.

Gill also highlighted how Pandya’s return would address India’s lower-order batting concerns, particularly at the seventh and eighth positions, as the team prepares for the upcoming ODI World Cup. India’s five-match ODI series against New Zealand begins on November 4 at Eden Park in Auckland, with the second game scheduled for November 7 in Wellington.

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