IND vs ENG: Hardik Pandya likely to miss India vs England ODI series

Team India is currently engaged in a three-match ODI series against Afghanistan, but several big names—most notably Virat Kohli and Hardik Pandya—are missing from the squad. Virat Kohli is sitting out the series due to a hamstring injury sustained during the IPL, while Hardik Pandya has suffered a quadriceps injury after recovering from back spasms. Although he had been declared fit for the series following his recovery from back spasms, news emerged the very next day that he had sustained a fresh injury and was ruled out of the series. This injury has now cast doubt on his participation in the upcoming white-ball series against England as well.

After a week of intense training and match simulation, Hardik experienced some discomfort, delaying his return to the 50-over format. Subsequently, the all-rounder suffered a muscle strain in his leg while at the BCCI's Centre of Excellence (CoE) in Bengaluru. According to reports, the 32-year-old all-rounder will follow a training regimen under the supervision of the CoE team. He is expected to begin light jogging and running over the weekend, followed by net practice.

With an eye on next year's World Cup, certainly, Hardik will now focus exclusively on the ODI format. This became evident when he was not selected for the T20I series against Ireland and England or the 2026 Asian Games.

His next assignment will be the three-match ODI series against England. Looking ahead to the 2027 Men's World Cup, the team management will focus on building a strong squad for the ODI format, a process in which Hardik Pandya is expected to play a pivotal role. Given the situation, the management does not want to take any risks with Hardik. Everyone knows that Hardik possesses the ability to win matches single-handedly.

At present, the BCCI's priority is ensuring Hardik attains full fitness; consequently, the board is unlikely to consider sending him on the England tour.

Some reports suggest that Hardik might regain fitness before the ODI series against England. However, it remains uncertain whether he will be selected for the ODI squad. The three-match ODI series between India and England begins on July 14. Before that, the Indian team is scheduled to play two T20Is against Ireland and five T20Is against England. Hardik could potentially be included in the squad, subject to receiving medical clearance.
Apart from Hardik Pandya, Virat Kohli's injury is also a cause for concern among Indian fans. The BCCI may announce the Indian ODI squad for the England series following the ODI series against Afghanistan.