Hardik Pandya doubtful for India A Puducherry matches and New Zealand tour after right shin pain, reports say

Hardik Pandya is doubtful for India A’s unofficial ODIs in Puducherry starting October 6 and for India’s tour of New Zealand beginning October 22 after he reported pain in his right shin, the Times of India reported on Friday. Scans have been carried out and he has been asked to rest under the supervision of the BCCI’s medical panel.

Pandya, an established white-ball all-rounder and regular match-winner for India, has been out of action since the IPL 2026 and was added to the India A squad for unofficial ODIs against Australia A at the Cricket Association Puducherry Siechem Ground between October 6 and 11. He is a high-profile player among Indian fans who have been awaiting his return to competitive cricket.

According to the report, Pandya experienced pain in his right shin, underwent scans and has been advised to avoid any physical activity for 12-15 days while remaining under BCCI medical supervision. The medical guidance follows his recent spell on the sidelines and prompted the rest recommendation.

The injury has cast doubt on his participation in India’s multi-format tour of New Zealand, which comprises five T20Is, five ODIs and two Tests and begins with a five-match T20I series on October 22 in Christchurch. There are strong indications he will miss the T20Is and could be considered for the ODI series starting on November 4 if cleared.

The BCCI has been cautious given the proximity of the ODI World Cup 2027, the report said, and is likely to officially confirm his injury status in the coming days. Suryansh Shedge, who represents Punjab Kings in the IPL and recently played three T20Is for India, is the reported likely replacement.

Pandya last played an ODI in the final of the Champions Trophy 2025. The expected official confirmation from the BCCI in the coming days will determine his availability for the India A matches in Puducherry and for the opening stages of the New Zealand tour.