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Injured Hardik Pandya will play domestic cricket before India return: Gill

India’s hopes for a fully fit squad ahead of the 2027 ODI World Cup hinge on the recovery of all-rounder Hardik Pandya, who has battled persistent injuries since the start of the IPL 2026 season. The Mumbai Indians player, a key figure in India’s batting lineup and a versatile bowler capable of swinging both new and old balls, has been sidelined since May after a series of setbacks, including back spasms, a quadriceps strain, and knee issues during rehabilitation.

Captain Shubman Gill confirmed that Pandya’s return will require participation in domestic cricket, likely the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy or Vijay Hazare Trophy, before he can rejoin the national team. India’s current ODI series against New Zealand—its first major home assignment since 2018–19—will proceed without Pandya, leaving a noticeable gap in the middle order and bowling attack.

Gill emphasized Pandya’s irreplaceable skill set, noting his ability to accelerate innings in the final overs while contributing with both pace and swing, but stressed that fitness must be fully restored before his comeback.

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