Just when his long-awaited return to competitive cricket appeared imminent, star India all-rounder Hardik Pandya has suffered another injury setback.
It is a fresh right shin problem set to keep him out of action for at least three weeks and effectively rule him out of the upcoming white-ball tour of New Zealand.
Pandya, whose return-to-play date had been pegged for September 20, was recently picked for the India A one-day series against Australia A beginning October 6. However, fresh scan reports revealed an injury to his right shin, forcing the BCCI medical team to advise complete rest for two weeks before reassessment.
The 32-year-old had reportedly experienced sharp pain around his knee during fielding drills ahead of the Afghanistan T20I series. Although he briefly resumed training, the discomfort resurfaced, prompting further scans that confirmed the injury.
The latest blow continues a frustrating run for Pandya, who has suffered multiple fitness setbacks in recent months. With the New Zealand series now virtually out of reach, the all-rounder may have to target domestic tournaments or the Zimbabwe ODIs for his competitive comeback.