Cricket
India’s star all-rounder Hardik Pandya is finally set to return to competitive cricket and fans couldn’t be more excited
Hardik has been out since his quadriceps injury during the Asia Cup 2025. His comeback is crucial ahead of the South Africa white-ball series
He is expected to play 1–2 matches for Baroda in the SMAT 2025–26 season, beginning with a clash vs Bengal in Hyderabad
Once cleared by the BCCI Centre of Excellence, Hardik will officially join the Baroda squad and prepare for the South Africa ODIs
India’s selectors want Hardik to get game time in domestic cricket before deciding on his selection for the ODI leg vs South Africa
His comeback boosts India’s balance ahead of South Africa ODIs, adding depth in both batting and pace bowling