Hardik Pandya passes fitness test at CoE, Rohit Sharma still awaiting clearance

Star all-rounder Hardik Pandya has been cleared by the sports science team of the BCCI Centre of Excellence (CoE) to take part in the upcoming three-match ODI series against Afghanistan, starting June 13. Pandya will unite with the Indian squad soon; however, former skipper Rohit Sharma is still awaiting a fitness clearance and is still at the CoE in Bengaluru to get a green signal to join the team.

Both Hardik and Rohit were included in the ODI squad, but their inclusion and availability were subjected to the obtainment of a fitness clearance from CoE. Pandya, who reached Bengaluru a week ago, has reportedly shown impressive signs, bowling long spells and engaging in several match simulations. 

"Hardik was on a holiday abroad before he checked in at the CoE on June 2. Over the next five days, he did several match simulations and even bowled (full quota of) 10 overs," a BCCI official was quoted as saying by India TV.

"There has been no discomfort and the information is that his fitness data for various parameters has been okayed by Strength and Conditioning coaches at the CoE," the source added.

An update on Rohit is currently awaited, but sources in the know have suggested that Rohit is not far from being fully fit. An official word from the BCCI regarding the matter is expected later in the day.

While Rohit has been cleared to take part in the series, the loyal fans of the Indian cricket team will miss the presence of Virat Kohli in the upcoming series. Kohli, who hit the winning runs for RCB in IPL 2026, underwent a hamstring injury during the match and has been ruled out of the Afghanistan assignment. He has been replaced by Yashasvi Jaiswal.

India's ODI squad:

Shubman Gill (C), Rohit Sharma, Yashasvi Jaiswal, Shreyas Iyer (VC), KL Rahul, Ishan Kishan, Hardik Pandya, Nitish Kumar Reddy, Washington Sundar, Kuldeep Yadav, Arshdeep Singh, Prasidh Krishna, Prince Yadav, Gurnoor Brar, Harsh Dubey

India vs Afghanistan 2026: ODI series schedule