Hardik Pandya's reintegration into the squad hinges on potential domestic appearances after a niggle interrupted his planned return with India A. The all-rounder has not featured internationally since the 2026 T20 World Cup final in Ahmedabad, appearing exclusively for the Mumbai Indians in the IPL since that fixture. His continued absence leaves India managing their lower-order combinations as they embark on a five-match ODI series against New Zealand starting November 4 at Eden Park in Auckland.
Key points
National team leadership hopes domestic cricket participation will facilitate Hardik Pand…: National team leadership hopes domestic cricket participation will facilitate Hardik Pandya's comeback to international action.
The all-rounder's eventual return is expected to reinforce India's lower batting order at…: The all-rounder's eventual return is expected to reinforce India's lower batting order at the number seven and eight positions.
India's ongoing bilateral schedule continues across Wellington, Hamilton, and Mount Maung…: India's ongoing bilateral schedule continues across Wellington, Hamilton, and Mount Maunganui following the Auckland series opener.
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When will
Hardik Pandya return to the Indian team? How is the all-rounder's fitness? When will he be seen wearing India colours again?
These were some of the questions put to India captain Shubman Gill during his press conference ahead of the first ODI against New Zealand in Auckland on Wednesday.
Pandya's absence from international cricket has been a talking point, with fans waiting for an update on his return. The all-rounder last represented India in the 2026 T20 World Cup final in Ahmedabad. Since then, his only competitive appearances have come in the Indian Premier League for Mumbai Indians.
Pandya has missed several international assignments since the T20 World Cup, including India's home series against Afghanistan and tours of Ireland and England. He was also unavailable for the home ODI series against the West Indies and is missing the ongoing tour of New Zealand.
Gill said the team management has been in regular touch with Pandya and highlighted the importance of having a player of his ability in the side.
He also revealed that the all-rounder suffered a niggle…
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