Hardik Pandya. File
| Photo Credit: PTI
India’s star all-rounder Hardik Pandya is likely to make a comeback for India against South Africa in the upcoming T20I series starting from December 9.
Pandya is set to play for his domestic side Baroda first in the ongoing Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy (SMAT) against Punjab on December 2 to assess his fitness.
According to BCCI sources, he has received clearance from the Centre of Excellence (COE) in Bengaluru to play.
With the BCCI set to announce the T20 series squad soon, the selectors will keep a close eye on Pandya’s fitness and performance in SMAT.
Pandya’s last appearance was for India at the Asia Cup, during their Super Fours match against Sri Lanka on September 26. He has been out of action since then owing to a left quadricep injury.
He began his rehabilitation at BCCI’s Centre of Excellence in Bengaluru on October 15, pausing for a three-day Diwali break before resuming his fitness regimen from October 21 to November 29.
Pandya’s availability for Baroda and whether he can appear in any further fixtures will depend on whether and when he is called up to join the India squad for preparation.
Published – December 02, 2025 04:49 am IST
