Indian team's star all-rounder Hardik Pandya is all set to return to the field. He had been away from competitive cricket for some time due to a left quadriceps injury sustained during the match against Sri Lanka in the Asia Cup.
SPORTS NEWS: Indian all-rounder Hardik Pandya is set to make his return to competitive cricket playing for his state team Baroda in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy later this month. Pandya is currently regaining match fitness at the BCCI Centre of Excellence in Bengaluru, and if all goes according to plan, he could feature in the very first match of the tournament.
With this comeback, the Baroda team expects to gain a b all-rounder who will enhance the team's strength in both batting and bowling. Fans and cricket analysts are highly enthusiastic about Hardik's form and performance, as his return is likely to increase both the excitement and competitiveness of the tournament.
Pandya to Play for Baroda in Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy
The 32-year-old Hardik Pandya will play for his home team Baroda in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy later this month. The tournament kicks off on November 26. Baroda's first match is in Hyderabad, and Pandya will head directly there after achieving match fitness. Pandya has worked hard at the BCCI Centre of Excellence in Bengaluru and has completed his “Return To Play” (RTP) process. If all goes according to plan, he could be seen playing in the very first match.
Hardik Pandya sustained an injury during the match against Sri Lanka, which led to him missing the final match against Pakistan. Subsequently, he also missed the ODI and T20 series against Australia. He will now return to the team after playing competitive matches before the South Africa series, which will help him regain match rhythm and fitness.
Upcoming Series Against South Africa
The three-match ODI series between India and South Africa will be played on November 30 (Ranchi), December 3 (Raipur), and December 6 (Visakhapatnam), respectively. Following this, a five-match T20 series will commence from December 9 in Cuttack. Pandya's return is expected to strengthen both the batting and bowling of the Indian team.
Pandya has worked diligently in Bengaluru to fully recover from his injury. His match fitness level has now reached its peak. Consequently, he will directly play in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy to prepare for the Indian team. According to BCCI sources, Pandya will not be given any break and will proceed directly to Hyderabad. This strategy will fully prepare him to don the Indian jersey for the white-ball matches against South Africa.
