New Delhi, Sept 9: Star allrounder Hardik Pandya has been included in the India A one-day squad for the three-match series against Australia A in Puducherry next month, subject to fitness clearance, as he looks to make his way back into India’s 50-over plans.
The three one-day matches will be played on October 6, 9 and 11, following two four-day unofficial Tests scheduled from September 22-25 and September 29-October 2.
Hardik has been out of action since IPL 2026 and has spent much of the intervening period undergoing rehabilitation at the BCCI Centre of Excellence in Bengaluru.
The allrounder missed part of Mumbai Indians’ IPL campaign due to back spasms before suffering a leg strain while training at the CoE, which forced him to sit out the ODI series against Afghanistan in June.
Hardik has not played an ODI since the Champions Trophy final in March 2025. With India looking ahead to the 2027 ODI World Cup, his return to 50-over cricket is being closely watched, particularly given his importance as a seam-bowling allrounder.
Ruturaj Gaikwad will captain India A in the one-day series, with Devdutt Padikkal named vice-captain. The squad also includes Sai Sudharsan, Rajat Patidar, Priyansh Arya, Prabhsimran Singh and Yash Thakur.
Hardik’s inclusion is subject to a fitness assessment, with India hoping he can clear the test and begin rebuilding his 50-over rhythm ahead of the World Cup.
Meanwhile, allrounders Nitish Kumar Reddy and Washington Sundar have received clearance from BCCI medical staff to return to action after recovering from their respective injuries.
Both have been picked for India’s T20I series against Afghanistan, beginning September 13. The fitness status of fast bowlers Jasprit Bumrah and Harshit Rana, who were also selected subject to clearance, remains unclear.
Hardik is regarded as a key part of India’s long-term World Cup plans, particularly for the conditions expected in Southern Africa.
