India A squads named, Pandya included pending fitness

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has announced the India A squads for an upcoming series against Australia A, featuring the inclusion of all-rounder Hardik Pandya in the one-day team. His participation, however, is contingent upon passing fitness clearance. The series, to be held in Puducherry, will consist of two multiday matches and three one-day fixtures. The multiday games are scheduled from September 22 to 25 and September 29 to October 2. The one-day series will commence on October 6, with subsequent matches on October 9 and October 11. Ruturaj Gaikwad has been appointed captain of the India A one-day squad, with Devdutt Padikkal serving as his deputy. Padikkal will lead the multiday squad, and Sai Sudharsan has been named vice-captain for the longer format. Pandya, who has been out of competitive action since the 2026 Indian Premier League due to injuries, including a quadricep strain and leg issues, is included in the 15-member one-day squad. His selection marks a potential return to the field after several months, though his availability for the matches remains uncertain until he receives fitness clearance from the BCCI's Centre of Excellence.