Hardik Pandya's T20I Return in Doubt After New Leg Injury

Hardik Pandya's anticipated return to international cricket has been thrown into doubt after the all-rounder suffered a fresh leg injury during his rehabilitation, making him highly unlikely for India's upcoming three-match T20I series against Afghanistan. The setback occurred at the BCCI Centre of Excellence in Bengaluru, where Pandya had been progressing well in his recovery from a previous quadriceps issue. According to sources tracking his rehabilitation, Pandya had been training at full intensity without discomfort before experiencing the new niggle. He has been advised to temporarily pause bowling, though his batting and movement remain unaffected. The injury is not considered severe, but the timing is critical. "He will resume soon, but the Afghanistan series is too close to reach the required fitness levels," a source said. The Centre of Excellence will not provide an all-clear until completely satisfied with his condition. The development complicates India's squad planning for the series, which begins on September 13 in New Delhi. The national selection committee is scheduled to meet this week to finalize the team.