India’s star all-rounder Hardik Pandya is now fully fit and ready to return to Team India.
Hardik has been selected in the Indian squad for the five-match T20I series against South Africa.
He was out for a long time after suffering a left quadriceps injury during the Asia Cup 2025, but now Hardik Pandya has received official clearance from the BCCI Centre of Excellence.
As soon as he was fit, Hardik Pandya immediately tested both his fitness and form by playing two matches for Baroda in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy 2025.
Hardik displayed his all-round game in two matches at SMAT 2025
Hardik played his first match of SMAT 2025 against Punjab on December 2. His bowling performance was mixed, taking 1 wicket for 52 runs in 4 overs.
But Hardik Pandya performed brilliantly with the bat, scoring 77 runs off 42 balls, including four sixes.
In the second match, against Gujarat on December 4th, Hardik showed improved rhythm with his bowling. He bowled a tight spell of 1/16 in four overs.
The chase was short, so he only had the opportunity to bat for 10 runs off six balls.
After the Punjab match, the venue was changed from the Gymkhana Ground to the Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium due to a crowd surge, and Hardik Pandya’s popularity was once again on display.
Hardik Pandya to join Team India in Cuttack on December 6th
The Times of India reported that the Indian team would assemble in Cuttack on December 6th, and Hardik Pandya would join the team that day.
The report also stated that some players might arrive on December 5th, but Hardik would link up on December 6th.
Hardik was scheduled to play another match for Baroda against Haryana on December 6th, but this plan was changed at the last minute due to Team India’s schedule.
These two SMAT matches are considered perfect preparation for Hardik Pandya, and he is expected to be seen on the field in the first T20I on December 9th.
