Hardik Pandya has been named in the India A squad for the upcoming three-match One-Day series against Australia A, with his participation contingent upon passing fitness assessments. The all-rounder has been sidelined from competitive cricket since the conclusion of the 2026 IPL, having last represented India during the T20 World Cup final against New Zealand in March. His absence from recent national team selections followed a period at the BCCI Centre of Excellence, where he underwent a Performance Block Programme to address a back spasm and a subsequent quadriceps injury. He was previously considered for the June ODI series against Afghanistan but was ultimately ruled out due to recurring injury complications.
The tour, which takes place in Puducherry between September 22 and October 11, features two multi-day matches and three one-day games. Leadership duties have been divided, with Devdutt Padikkal appointed to captain the multi-day side, supported by vice-captain Sai Sudharsan. Meanwhile, Ruturaj Gaikwad will lead the white-ball squad, with Padikkal serving as his deputy for those fixtures.
In addition to Pandya’s inclusion, fast bowler Vyshak Vijaykumar has been selected for the multi-day squad, also subject to his fitness status. The selection marks a significant step for the players involved as they prepare for the series against the visiting Australian side.
