Delhi: India received a major boost ahead of the upcoming ODI series against Afghanistan as star all-rounder Hardik Pandya has reportedly been declared fit to return to international action after successfully completing his assessment at the BCCI’s Centre of Excellence (CoE) in Bengaluru. Pandya had been sidelined after suffering a back spasm during the latter stages of the IPL 2026 season, forcing him to miss a few matches for the Mumbai Indians. However, according to reports, the 32-year-old has now passed all the required fitness parameters and received clearance from the BCCI medical team.
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The all-rounder checked into the CoE on June 2 and underwent an extensive rehabilitation and monitoring programme. As part of the evaluation process, Pandya reportedly bowled his full quota of 10 overs at match intensity without experiencing any discomfort, paving the way for his return to the national setup. His availability comes as a significant relief for the Indian team management ahead of the three-match ODI series against Afghanistan, scheduled to begin on June 13 in Dharamshala. Pandya’s presence adds much-needed balance to the side, offering India a proven finisher with the bat and a dependable seam-bowling option.
Earlier, India’s batting coach Sitanshu Kotak had expressed optimism over Pandya’s recovery, indicating that both Pandya and captain Rohit Sharma were progressing well through their respective fitness protocols. Pandya last featured in an ODI during India’s victorious ICC Champions Trophy campaign and has remained a crucial figure in the team’s white-ball plans. His return is expected to strengthen India’s preparations for a packed international calendar in the coming months. With the fitness hurdle now behind him, Hardik Pandya is set to rejoin the Indian dressing room, bringing experience, versatility and leadership to the squad as they gear up for the Afghanistan challenge.
