Team India all-rounder Hardik Pandya is expected to be sidelined for an extended period and will miss the upcoming white-ball tour of Australia due to injury. Pandya sustained the injury during the Super 4 stage of the Asia Cup 2025 match against Sri Lanka, forcing him to sit out the final against Pakistan in the UAE.
Initially, bowling coach Morne Morkel described it as mere cramps following India’s Super Over victory in Dubai, while skipper Suryakumar Yadav had referred to it as a ‘niggle’ for Pandya’s absence in the final. However, according to a report by Dainik Jagran, the injury has now been confirmed as a left quadriceps strain, requiring approximately four weeks of rest.
India’s tour of Australia is set to begin on October 19 with a three-match ODI series, following a two-match Test series at home against the West Indies. The Men in Blue will also play a five-match T20I series in Australia starting October 29.
The report states that Pandya might feature in a few T20I matches if he recovers in time. The BCCI is currently waiting for the full medical assessment before finalizing the squad for the tour.
“According to BCCI sources, Pandya has been advised to rest for four weeks,” the report states.
“Gutted to miss the big game” – Hardik Pandya on Asia Cup 2025 Final
Hardik Pandya has struggled with injuries throughout his career, including a serious back issue and a rolled ankle during the 2023 ODI World Cup. In his absence, Team India will face a crucial decision on maintaining team balance and combinations for the Australia tour.
“I was very gutted to miss the most important game, but the way the boys played was outstanding. They showed a lot of character. I have always enjoyed any role that I am given, and this time I was handed the new ball, which I really enjoyed. Batting has always been there whenever the team requires it, as that’s the way I like to bat,” the all-rounder said in a video released by BCCI.
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