India all-rounder Hardik Pandya is reportedly unlikely to return to competitive cricket before IPL 2027 as he continues his recovery from a calf strain.
His rehabilitation programme is expected to extend into January, leaving him set to miss several upcoming domestic and international assignments.
According to a report by Dainik Jagran, Pandya’s medical reports were reviewed by Dr Dinshaw Pardiwala on October 14. The all-rounder is currently undergoing rehabilitation at the BCCI’s Centre of Excellence (COE) in Bengaluru as he works towards regaining full fitness.
The rehabilitation plan reportedly includes a gradual return to running, with Pandya expected to begin jogging after around three weeks. His running workload will then be increased progressively as the medical team monitors his recovery.
However, there is no confirmed date for his return to full match fitness. His workload is expected to be managed carefully, with January 7 emerging as an important point in the reported rehabilitation timeline. The extended recovery period could rule him out of competitive cricket for the remainder of 2026.
Hardik Pandya Injury: India all-rounder to miss upcoming series
Pandya has not been included in India’s squad for the upcoming tour of New Zealand, as the team management continues to assess its options without the experienced all-rounder.
His absence is also expected to affect India’s plans for the upcoming white-ball assignments. According to the report, Pandya could miss the ODI and T20I series against Sri Lanka, scheduled to begin on December 13, as well as the ODI series against Zimbabwe starting January 3.
The injury could also prevent him from featuring in domestic competitions, including the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy and the Vijay Hazare Trophy. Missing these tournaments would further limit his opportunities to regain match rhythm before the next IPL season.
India will therefore have to manage his absence carefully, particularly given his value as a pace-bowling all-rounder who can contribute with both bat and ball in limited-overs cricket.
IPL 2027 could be Hardik Pandya’s next return opportunity
With Pandya’s recovery expected to continue into January, the next Indian Premier League season could become his most realistic opportunity to return to competitive action.
The all-rounder does not play Test cricket, which limits the number of international formats available for a potential comeback. His return will ultimately depend on how well he responds to rehabilitation and whether he can build up his workload without complications.
For now, the priority will be to ensure that Pandya recovers fully rather than rush him back into action. His fitness will be particularly important for India, given his role in the team’s limited-overs plans and his ability to provide balance to the playing XI.
Rishabh Pant’s fitness being monitored
Meanwhile, wicketkeeper-batter Rishabh Pant is also being monitored by the medical team after sustaining a side strain during the Irani Trophy.
Pant reportedly completed two weeks of rest before reporting to the Centre of Excellence in Bengaluru. His condition is said to be improving, and he is expected to begin light skill-based training before gradually increasing the intensity of his sessions.
Although Pant has been included in India’s squad for the Test series against New Zealand, his availability will depend on his recovery and fitness assessment. The medical team is continuing to monitor his progress before making a final decision on his participation.
Prasidh Krishna set for fitness assessment after hamstring strain
India fast bowler Prasidh Krishna is following a separate rehabilitation programme after suffering a hamstring strain during the ODI series against the West Indies.
According to the report, Krishna is expected to take part in match simulations on October 22 and 23. His performance during these sessions will help the medical team assess his readiness to return to competitive cricket.
The pacer has been included in India’s ODI and Test squads for the New Zealand tour, but his participation will depend on the outcome of his fitness assessment.
With Pandya, Pant and Krishna all undergoing recovery or fitness monitoring, India’s medical team faces important decisions ahead of a busy international schedule. The focus will remain on ensuring that each player is ready to return without risking further injury.