Hardik Pandya Gets All-Clear For ODI Return After Full Fitness Clearance At BCCI CoE

Star India all-rounder Hardik Pandya has received a full fitness clearance from the Sports Science unit at the BCCI’s Centre of Excellence (CoE) in Bengaluru, paving the way for his return to international cricket in the upcoming three-match ODI series against Afghanistan starting Sunday in Dharamsala.

Pandya, 32, had been out of competitive action during parts of the recent IPL season for Mumbai Indians due to recurring back spasms. He checked into the CoE on June 2 after a short holiday abroad for a structured rehabilitation and assessment programme.

According to BCCI sources, Pandya underwent intensive match-simulation sessions over five days , during which he also bowled his full quota of 10 overs in training scenarios , a key indicator of his readiness for 50-over cricket. The reports confirmed that there was no discomfort or recurrence of pain , and his fitness data across multiple performance parameters was cleared by the Strength and Conditioning staff.

The CoE monitoring team reportedly observed stable workload tolerance, controlled bowling rhythm, and consistent recovery markers , all of which contributed to the decision to clear him for selection.

On Monday, India’s assistant coach Sitanshu Kotak had said he did not have a final update on Pandya’s status but indicated that the all-rounder was progressing well during rehabilitation. Pandya remains a crucial balance factor in India’s white-ball setup , offering both seam-bowling depth and explosive batting in the lower order, especially in death overs.

There is still some uncertainty regarding his immediate travel plans, with discussions ongoing on whether he will join the team for a training session in Chandigarh under lights or directly link up with the squad in Dharamsala, as originally scheduled.

Meanwhile, former India captain Rohit Sharma is also present at the CoE undergoing assessment for a hamstring niggle that had sidelined him during a significant part of the recent IPL season.

With Pandya cleared and returning to full workload, India’s ODI squad receives a major boost ahead of the Afghanistan series, particularly in terms of balance, bowling depth, and finishing strength .