Hardik Pandya’s return to cricket has drawn significant attention after talks with Gujarat Titans became a roadblock in his potential IPL trade. The India all-rounder is currently being linked with Kolkata Knight Riders and Chennai Super Kings, with both franchises reportedly interested in acquiring him for IPL 2027.
In a recent development, Pandya expressed his desire to be reinstated as Gujarat Titans captain in place of Shubman Gill, but the request was reportedly denied by the franchise.
Amid the trade speculation, Hardik Pandya is now targeting a T20I return. He has been out of international cricket since March 2026, when he last played against New Zealand in Ahmedabad during the T20 World Cup.
Hardik Pandya Eyeing Afghanistan Series Return
According to a Times of India report, Pandya has been training at the Board of Control for Cricket in India’s Centre of Excellence for several weeks since the conclusion of IPL 2026. He is currently focused on regaining full fitness.
The report states that Pandya is bowling up to 10 overs and batting extensively in the nets. India are scheduled to play a three-match T20I series against Afghanistan in New Delhi from September 13 to 17.
Pandya’s Recent Injury Setbacks
Hardik Pandya missed parts of the IPL 2026 league stage due to persistent back spasms before returning for Mumbai Indians’ final two group-stage matches.
In June, he reported to the Centre of Excellence in Bengaluru to build up his bowling workload and undergo multiple fitness tests. During the same month, he attempted to bowl a full quota of 10 overs in a simulation match and initially cleared the selection test. However, he subsequently experienced discomfort in his left leg. A low-grade quadriceps strain required a multi-week recovery period.
Pandya then shifted permanently to the COE in July, where he has been working on improving his physical conditioning and managing workload and travel demands. His training at the medical centre has been crucial after he missed multiple ODI and T20I opportunities during India’s recent international schedule.
India to Get a Major Boost from Pandya’s Return
In Pandya’s absence, Shivam Dube has been the primary replacement option. While Dube can match Pandya’s power-hitting to some extent, he is a medium-pace bowler and does not offer the same bowling impact. India’s bowling attack, in particular, stands to benefit from the return of the experienced all-rounder.
India’s results without Pandya have been mixed. They whitewashed Afghanistan 3-0 in the ODI series, but their performances in the subsequent T20I series against Ireland and England were less convincing. The ODI series against England ended 2-1 in India’s favour, while their most comfortable success came against Zimbabwe, whom they whitewashed 3-0.
Hardik Pandya’s likely return for the three-match T20I series against Afghanistan (concluding on September 17) could provide a significant boost to the side. It will also be an important comeback for Pandya himself, as he looks to prove his fitness, bowling workload and ability to perform at the highest level before the IPL 2027 trade window closes.
