India’s preparations for the upcoming ODI series against Afghanistan have taken a significant hit after all-rounder Hardik Pandya was ruled out following a fresh injury scare during a fitness assessment. The development comes as another setback for the Indian team, which is already without Virat Kohli due to a hamstring injury.
The issue emerged shortly after Pandya had reportedly cleared his fitness evaluation at the BCCI’s Centre of Excellence in Bengaluru. However, within hours of completing the assessment, the 32-year-old experienced discomfort in his leg muscles, forcing medical staff to reassess his condition ahead of the three-match series.
Fresh Injury After Recovery From Back Problem
Hardik Pandya had been working his way back from a back injury sustained during IPL 2026 while representing Mumbai Indians. After undergoing rehabilitation and recovery, he arrived in Bengaluru seeking final fitness clearance to return to international cricket.
According to reports, Pandya was in the final phase of his fitness testing when the new problem surfaced. As part of the evaluation process, he bowled a full spell equivalent to 10 overs in order to demonstrate match readiness and workload capacity.
Sources suggest that the sudden increase in bowling intensity after a lengthy break may have contributed to a hamstring-related issue. While official details about the severity of the injury have not been disclosed, early assessments indicate that he could require at least three weeks of recovery and rehabilitation.
As a result, Pandya will miss the Afghanistan ODI series, which begins later this week.
Fitness Assessment Raises Concerns
The news surrounding “Hardik Pandya Injured During Fitness Test” has sparked concern among Indian cricket fans, particularly because the all-rounder had only recently completed his rehabilitation process.
Fast-bowling all-rounders often face challenges managing workloads after extended injury layoffs, and medical teams typically monitor their return carefully. Pandya’s latest setback highlights the physical demands involved in transitioning from rehabilitation to competitive cricket.
His absence leaves India without one of its most experienced limited-overs players. Beyond his ability to contribute with both bat and ball, Pandya has often played a crucial role as a match-winner in pressure situations.
Important Series Begins on June 13
India and Afghanistan are scheduled to play a three-match ODI series beginning on June 13. The opening match will be played in Dharamshala, followed by fixtures in Lucknow and Rajkot.
Afghanistan Tour of India-ODI Schedule
First-ODI-Dharamshala-June 13
Second-ODI-Lucknow-June 17
Third-ODI-Rajkot-June 20
The series is expected to provide valuable preparation opportunities for both teams ahead of a busy international calendar.
Kohli Also Missing From Squad
Pandya’s injury comes shortly after India lost another senior player. Virat Kohli had already been ruled out of the Afghanistan series after suffering a hamstring injury while playing in the IPL 2026 final.
At the time of the squad announcement, chief selector Ajit Agarkar stated that Kohli’s recovery timeline remained uncertain. While there is hope that he could return before India’s next major assignment, no definitive date has been set.
To fill the vacancy created by Kohli’s absence, selectors included young opener Yashasvi Jaiswal in the squad.
Also read: WI vs SL 2nd ODI Abandoned Due to Rain as Series Heads Into Decisive Final Match
Pandya’s ODI Record
Despite frequent injury interruptions throughout his career, Hardik Pandya remains one of India’s most influential white-ball cricketers. In 94 ODI appearances, he has scored 1,904 runs and claimed 91 wickets, making him one of the country’s most valuable all-round options.
With both Pandya and Kohli unavailable, India’s team management will now be forced to adjust its plans for the Afghanistan series. The focus will also remain on ensuring Pandya makes a full recovery, as India will be keen to have one of its premier all-rounders fit for future international assignments.
