Hardik Pandya Faces Injury Setback Ahead of ODI Series Against Afghanistan

In a significant blow to the Indian cricket team, all-rounder Hardik Pandya is likely to miss the upcoming ODI series against Afghanistan due to a leg injury. Despite training hard at the BCCI Centre of Excellence, a recent setback has put his participation in doubt. This absence is particularly concerning as India prepares for the 2027 Men's ODI World Cup. With Virat Kohli also ruled out due to injury, the team faces challenges in finalizing their lineup. The situation raises questions about potential replacements and the team's strategy moving forward.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jun 10, 2026, 13:36 IST

Hardik Pandya's Injury Concerns

File image of Veteran Cricketer Hardik Pandya(Photo: @ateekview/X)

New Delhi, June 10: In a significant setback for the Indian cricket team, all-rounder Hardik Pandya is likely to miss the upcoming three-match ODI series against Afghanistan due to a leg injury.

Pandya, who had previously missed several matches for the Mumbai Indians during IPL 2026 because of back spasms, had been training at the BCCI Centre of Excellence (CoE) in Bengaluru since June 2. He was expected to receive fitness clearance for the ODI series starting June 13 in Dharamshala, followed by matches in Lucknow and Chennai.

Despite participating in full bowling sessions and executing batting and fielding drills effectively at CoE, a recent injury has put his participation in jeopardy. With 94 ODI caps to his name, this latest development is a blow to the team's preparations.

According to sources, "Hardik Pandya was nearing full fitness clearance from CoE for the ODI series against Afghanistan. However, it has now been revealed that he has sustained a minor leg injury that will require a few weeks for recovery.

“This unexpected setback means he will not be fully fit for the ODI series and will concentrate on his recovery at the CoE," the sources added.

Pandya's absence is particularly concerning as he is one of India's most seasoned seam-bowling all-rounders, crucial for the team's strategy as they prepare for the 2027 Men's ODI World Cup.

His dual capability with bat and ball has been vital for India's ODI plans, although he has not participated in a 50-over match since the 2025 Champions Trophy victory.

As the wait for Pandya's return to ODI cricket extends, it remains uncertain whether he will regain full fitness in time for the series against England, scheduled for July 14-19.

In a related development, star batter Virat Kohli has also been ruled out of the ODIs against Afghanistan due to a hamstring injury, leading to Yashasvi Jaiswal being called up as his replacement.

It is yet to be determined if Shivam Dube, another seam-bowling all-rounder with four ODI caps, will be named as Pandya's substitute for the series. India also has Nitish Kumar Reddy, another seam-bowling all-rounder, who has played four ODIs to date.