Win Projections to be updated soon
Indian all-rounder Hardik Pandya is reportedly gearing up for a return to red-ball cricket with Baroda in the upcoming Ranji Trophy, hinting at a potential comeback to Test cricket. Pandya, who last played a Test for India in 2018, has been out of the long format due to a serious back injury and subsequent surgery.Â
Pandya’s Journey in Red-Ball Cricket
Since making his Test debut in 2017, Pandya has played 11 matches, scoring 532 runs at an average of 31.29 and picking up 17 wickets.
His aggressive style and all-round abilities made him a valuable asset to the Indian Test side, but his career was interrupted by persistent back issues that required surgery.
Post-surgery, Pandya focused on limited-overs cricket to manage his fitness. His decision to step away from red-ball cricket raised questions, but now, with social media posts of him training with the red ball, a comeback could be on the cards.
However, recent reports suggest that Pandya may be aiming to revive his first-class career, potentially preparing for future Test series, including the Border-Gavaskar Trophy against Australia.
Virat Kohli’s Struggles Continue in India; Sanjay Manjrekar Compares Him to Sachin Tendulkar
Baroda and Beyond: Preparing for a Bigger Test?
Pandya’s possible return to first-class cricket comes at a crucial time, with several high-stakes series on the horizon.
A source from the Baroda Cricket Association hinted that this could be the first step in Pandya’s plan to return to the Test side.
However, with seasoned all-rounders like Ravindra Jadeja and Axar Patel still in strong form, it remains to be seen whether Pandya’s inclusion in the national team will be immediate or part of a longer-term plan.
Pandya hasn’t confirmed his red-ball comeback officially, but his increasing activity in training suggests that he’s open to the idea.
As India’s Test setup undergoes changes, Pandya could emerge as a valuable player with both bat and ball in the near future.
Stay updated with all the cricketing action, follow Cricadium on WhatsApp, Facebook, Twitter, Telegram, and Instagram
