BCCI chief of selectors Ajit Agarkar has shared a significant update regarding the fitness of India’s star all-rounder Hardik Pandya, who will miss the upcoming series against Australia across both white-ball formats.
The injury, sustained before the Asia Cup 2025 final against Pakistan at Dubai International Stadium, has prevented Pandya from recovering in time for the tour. This leaves Team India without one of their key players in the lineup.
Speaking at a press conference on Saturday, October 4, Agarkar addressed the situation, stating:
“At the moment, he is not going to be fit for Australia. We will know in due course how long he is going to be. At this point, in a week’s time, he’s supposed to be at the CoE, and once he starts his rehab, we will get to better timelines, but definitely not available for Australia.”
Agarkar added that there is currently no clear timeline for Pandya’s return, and the exact duration of his absence will only become apparent once the Baroda-born all-rounder begins rehabilitation. The Indian selectors are keeping a close watch on his progress, but for now, the team has to plan without him.
Shivam Dube Steps Up
With Hardik Pandya sidelined, Shivam Dube will be expected to fill the gap as India’s primary seam-bowling all-rounder. Dube showcased his capabilities during India’s successful Asia Cup campaign and will now have the responsibility to contribute with both bat and ball in the high-pressure Australian conditions.
Pandya’s absence is felt not only for his all-round skills but also for his experience in crucial match situations. The team management will rely on players like Dube to provide balance and maintain India’s competitiveness across the formats.
Pandya’s T20I Record And Upcoming Tour Details
Hardik Pandya has previously made a notable impact in T20Is played in Australia. Across 12 matches, he has taken 11 wickets and maintained an impressive batting strike rate of 140.14. He was instrumental during India’s 2020 T20I series win in Australia, smashing an unbeaten 42 off 20 balls to help chase 195 with six wickets to spare.
Meanwhile, the Indian squad has seen a major leadership shift, with Shubman Gill replacing Rohit Sharma as ODI captain. Both Rohit and Virat Kohli are set to play their first international match since the IPL 2025, having last appeared in the Champions Trophy final in March. The series against Australia is set to begin on October 19 at the Optus Stadium in Perth.
Get the latest cricket news here, like us on Facebook, and follow us on Twitter and Instagram for more such updates.
