Last Updated: August 31, 2026 03:09 PM
India’s team management just received some genuinely encouraging fitness updates recently. Two important all-rounders appear ready for a much-needed comeback. Here is the complete picture behind this promising development.
Hardik Pandya and Nitish Kumar Reddy Cleared as Fully Fit
Hardik Pandya and Nitish Kumar Reddy are reportedly fully fit now. Both are expected to be available for India’s upcoming squad selection. India will play three T20Is against Afghanistan starting September 13 in Delhi.
Both all-rounders have trained intensively at the BCCI Centre of Excellence recently. Their return could significantly strengthen India’s balance across both batting and bowling departments.
This gives selectors more flexibility while finalizing the squad for Afghanistan T20Is. Reports say both players focused heavily on training, with limited personal breaks.
Reddy reportedly returns home only on weekends during this intense rehabilitation phase. Pandya even shifted his base to Bengaluru throughout his recovery period.
The Injury Journey Behind Hardik Pandya’s Comeback
Hardik Pandya had struggled with recurring back spasms for several months. This issue forced him out of Mumbai Indians’ later IPL 2026 matches. During recovery, he then suffered a quadriceps strain unexpectedly again.
Another leg injury followed, further delaying his eventual international comeback plans. These setbacks kept him out of tours to Ireland, England and Zimbabwe. His fitness clearance now marks a major boost ahead of Afghanistan T20Is.
Nitish Kumar Reddy’s Road Back to Full Fitness
Nitish Kumar Reddy suffered a serious left-quadriceps injury during the England ODI series. This injury occurred during the final ODI played at Lord’s. He then spent considerable time on the sidelines recovering fully.
His return alongside Hardik Pandya strengthens India’s all-round options significantly. Selectors will likely welcome this depth heading into the Afghanistan T20Is series.
Washington Sundar Also Nearing His Fitness Comeback
Washington Sundar is also progressing steadily toward full fitness clearance now. He remains close to completing his required fitness tests successfully. Sundar will return to the Centre of Excellence for further assessment soon.
He must prove his fitness before entering contention for Afghanistan T20Is. Sources believe he has a strong chance if tests go well.
He suffered a hamstring injury during the second England ODI in Cardiff. That injury ruled him out of further matches and the Sri Lanka Tests.
