India all-rounder Hardik Pandya is making encouraging progress in his recovery, with the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) reportedly concentrating on ensuring he reaches peak fitness ahead of the 2027 ODI World Cup. Rather than rushing him back into regular international action, the board is said to be following a long-term approach aimed at keeping the star all-rounder fully fit for cricket’s biggest event.

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Hardik has been sidelined after suffering a quadriceps sprain that kept him out of India’s ODI assignments against Afghanistan and England. While the injury delayed his return, the latest update suggests his rehabilitation is moving in the right direction.

Recovery back on course after minor setback

According to reports, Hardik’s recovery hit a brief obstacle when he picked up a low-grade quadriceps injury shortly before the ODI series against Afghanistan. Before that setback, he had been close to receiving fitness clearance after spending significant time training at the BCCI Centre of Excellence (CoE).

Since then, the focus has shifted towards a structured rehabilitation plan instead of targeting an immediate return for a particular series. The programme is designed to improve both fitness and overall performance over the long term.

“Hardik’s recovery had a few hiccups, but it’s absolutely fine now,” said a source, according to the report.

The report also states that the experienced all-rounder is nearing peak physical condition and is continuing to work towards achieving his best performance levels.

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BCCI prioritising 2027 World Cup preparation

The BCCI’s reported strategy revolves around having Hardik fully fit for the 2027 World Cup. Because of that, participation in bilateral white-ball series is not being treated as an immediate priority. If selected over the coming months, Hardik is expected to feature mainly in the 50-over format as part of his workload management.

“The focus is on the 2027 World Cup, where it would be imperative to have a fully fit Hardik,” the source said.

“Given his injury record, bilateral white-ball series are not a priority for him at the moment. Also, for the next one year, in the lead-up to the World Cup, he would be used mostly in the 50-over format. He has been working on a specific programme and everyone is pretty confident about having him in the top shape at the World Cup,” the source added.

Hardik Pandya
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Hardik Pandya | X [ESPNCricinfo]

IPL trade rumours continue around Hardik

While continuing his recovery, Hardik has also remained at the centre of discussions during the IPL trade window. Reports have linked the India all-rounder with potential moves involving Kolkata Knight Riders and Chennai Super Kings.

For now, however, the priority remains his rehabilitation, with the long-term goal of ensuring he is fully prepared to play a key role for India at the 2027 ODI World Cup.

FAQs

Why is Hardik Pandya missing India’s recent ODI series?

He is recovering from a quadriceps injury and is following a long-term rehabilitation programme.

What is the BCCI’s plan for Hardik Pandya?

The board is reportedly managing his workload with the goal of having him fully fit for the 2027 ODI World Cup.