India gets a major boost ahead of the white ball series against South Africa as Hardik Pandya prepares to return to competitive cricket. He has been out for several months with a quadriceps injury, and you will soon see him back on the field.
Return through domestic cricket
Pandya starts his comeback with Baroda in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy later this month. You will see him in the first two matches against Bengal on 26 November and Puducherry on 28 November as part of his fitness plan. These games will guide his match readiness.
BCCI’s fitness plan
The BCCI and team management want him to regain rhythm before rejoining the national squad. You can expect close monitoring of his workload as India prepares for the ODI and T20I series against South Africa. His progress remains a key focus.
Preparation for the 2026 T20 World Cup
After his domestic matches, Pandya joins the Indian camp in December for final recovery work. This phase is important as India builds towards the 2026 T20 World Cup. The team expects him to return fully fit for the upcoming season.
Rehab at Bengaluru
Pandya is now in the last stage of rehabilitation at the BCCI Centre of Excellence in Bengaluru. He has been training through intense recovery sessions. Sources say he should be ready for Baroda’s first match, and if not, he will play the second one.
Travel plans for the tournament
Once cleared, he travels to Hyderabad where Baroda plays the rest of its league matches in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy 2025. His domestic run will help him ease back into competitive cricket after a long break.
Performance before injury
Pandya last played in the Asia Cup 2025 where he scored 48 runs and took 4 wickets in 5 matches. His injury kept him out of the final against Pakistan and the Australia tour. You can now expect him to push for a strong comeback.
His role in India’s plans
Pandya aims to return as a finisher and strike bowler as India looks ahead to the 2026 T20 World Cup. His all round ability adds balance and leadership, which the team needs while shaping its core for the tournament.
Comeback date set
If all goes well, you will see Pandya back in action on 26 November. This marks the start of a new chapter in his comeback journey and a positive sign for Indian cricket.
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