IND vs AFG: Rohit Sharma, Hardik Pandya's availability hinges on fitness clearance
Rohit Sharma and Hardik Pandya are awaiting medical clearance before the Afghanistan ODI series. Their fitness status has left India's team management seeking clarity on two senior players.
India’s squad for the upcoming home series against Afghanistan is expected to be announced later today, but uncertainty remains over the availability of senior players Rohit Sharma and Hardik Pandya for the three-match ODI leg of the tour.
With Shubman Gill set to lead India in ODIs as the new captain, the spotlight has shifted to the fitness status of two experienced campaigners whose availability remains unclear ahead of selection.
India Today has learnt that the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is yet to take a final call on the inclusion of both Rohit and Hardik, with fitness concerns continuing to be assessed.
Afghanistan are scheduled to tour India from June 6 to 20, with the series comprising a one-off Test in Mullanpur followed by three ODIs in Dharamsala, Lucknow and Chennai.
Rohit yet to meet fitness benchmarks
Rohit’s availability remains under scrutiny as he is yet to meet the BCCI’s prescribed high-speed running and fielding standards, which form part of the selection criteria for ODI cricket.
The former India captain has largely featured as an impact substitute during the ongoing IPL season, limiting his workload in the field. While there is no indication of a major injury concern, selectors are understood to be assessing whether he can meet the physical benchmarks required for a return to full ODI duties.
His potential absence would be a significant talking point given his experience at the top of the order, although India’s leadership transition in the format has already begun with Gill taking charge.
Hardik awaits fitness clearance
Hardik’s situation also remains uncertain due to a fitness issue, with the all-rounder understood to be dealing with lower back stiffness.
Although sources suggest he is expected to return to play in the coming days, his availability for the Afghanistan series will depend on whether he is able to successfully complete the required fitness assessments.
Hardik remains a vital figure in India’s ODI setup because of the balance he provides as a pace-bowling all-rounder, making his fitness status a key concern for team management.
With the squad announcement expected later in the day, clarity on Rohit and Hardik will be closely watched as India prepare for Gill’s first ODI assignment as captain and begin the next phase of their white-ball transition.