India’s premier all-rounder Hardik Pandya is all set to make his much-awaited domestic comeback for Baroda in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy later this month. The 32-year-old has nearly completed his rehabilitation at the BCCI’s Centre of Excellence in Bengaluru and is expected to feature in Baroda’s first match on November 26 in Hyderabad. Fans are eagerly waiting for the Hardik Pandya domestic comeback, which will mark his return to competitive cricket after three months.
This move aligns with the BCCI’s latest directive that top players must play domestic tournaments to stay eligible for national selection. As per a Times of India report, Pandya’s decision follows Rohit Sharma’s plan to play in the Vijay Hazare Trophy, while Virat Kohli, currently in London with his family, has yet to confirm any domestic appearance.
Hardik’s Road To Recovery
Hardik has been working intensively on conditioning and strength training in Bengaluru after suffering a quadricep injury during the Asia Cup. The setback ruled him out of the tournament final and the white-ball series against Australia. Once he receives his Return to Play (RTP) clearance, he will join the Baroda squad in Hyderabad to prepare for the upcoming matches.
Selectors want him to gain match practice before India’s ODI series against South Africa, scheduled in Ranchi, Raipur, and Visakhapatnam from November 30 to December 6. The home season will then continue with a five-match T20I series starting December 9 in Cuttack. His Hardik Pandya domestic comeback will serve as a key fitness test before returning to international cricket.
With his explosive batting and effective bowling, Hardik’s presence is expected to strengthen both Baroda and India’s white-ball squads. Fans across the country are excited to see Hardik Pandya domestic comeback in action again.
FAQs
Q: When will Hardik Pandya make his domestic comeback?
A: Hardik Pandya domestic comeback is expected on November 26 when Baroda begins its Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy campaign.
Q: Why is Hardik Pandya playing the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy?
A: The Hardik Pandya domestic comeback follows BCCI’s rule requiring players to participate in domestic cricket to stay eligible for Team India selection.
Q: Will Hardik Pandya play in the South Africa series?
A: If fully fit, Hardik is likely to feature in the ODI series starting November 30.
Q: What caused Hardik Pandya’s break from cricket?
A: He suffered a quadricep injury during the Asia Cup, keeping him out for around three months.
