Injury Boost: Hardik Pandya and Nitish Kumar Reddy Eye Return for Afghanistan T20Is
Team India is set to receive a significant personnel boost ahead of their upcoming T20I series against Afghanistan, which kicks off in Delhi on September 13. As the national selectors prepare to finalize the squad, the return of key all-rounders has provided a much-needed shot in the arm for the team’s composition.
According to reliable sources, both Hardik Pandya and Nitish Kumar Reddy have been undergoing intense training sessions at the BCCI Centre of Excellence (CoE) in Bengaluru. Both players are reportedly operating at full capacity, marking a successful recovery phase as they push for a return to international action.
Meanwhile, off-spinning all-rounder Washington Sundar is currently in the final stages of his medical clearance. Having spent the weekend in Chennai, he is expected to report back to the CoE this week to undergo final fitness assessments. A source tracking the team’s development noted, “The practical target is the T20Is against Afghanistan. His workload has been gradually increased, and he is expected to be available for selection.”
The Bumrah Question
While the return of the all-rounders is positive news, all eyes remain fixed on star pacer Jasprit Bumrah. Having missed the recent Test series against Sri Lanka, the team management is exercising extreme caution with the 32-year-old.
With an eye on the upcoming Test series against New Zealand, the BCCI is managing Bumrah’s rehabilitation with long-term fitness in mind. While his participation in the Afghanistan series remains a “touch-and-go” situation, officials are optimistic that he will be fully match-fit for the Asian Games, provided there are no setbacks during his recovery.
Tactical Shifts: Krunal Pandya Back in Consideration?
Beyond injury updates, the selection committee, chaired by Ajit Agarkar, is also evaluating tactical changes following lackluster performances from the spin department during recent tours of Ireland and England.
With Axar Patel struggling to make a significant impact—taking only four wickets across six combined T20Is—the selectors are reportedly exploring the return of Krunal Pandya. Having last represented India in 2021, Krunal has remained a consistent performer in the IPL, most notably capturing 14 wickets for the Royal Challengers Bengaluru in the 2026 season. His experience and recent domestic form make him a strong candidate for the left-arm spinner role.
The senior selection committee is expected to meet later this week to finalize the squad, marking a pivotal moment in India’s preparation for the upcoming international calendar.
