Rohit Sharma, Hardik Pandya Cleared for ODI Return Ahead of Afghanistan Series

India’s preparations for the upcoming One-Day International series against Afghanistan received a major boost after senior players Rohit Sharma and Hardik Pandya were declared fit by the Board of Control for Cricket in India’s (BCCI) Centre of Excellence in Bengaluru.

The duo had been under the scanner following injury concerns that forced them to miss a number of matches during the latter stages of the Indian Premier League. Their availability had remained uncertain, prompting the team management to await the outcome of their fitness assessments ahead of the three-match ODI assignment.

According to reports, the Sports Science and Medical team at the Centre of Excellence gave both players the green signal after they successfully completed the required rehabilitation protocols and workload assessments. Hardik, who had been recovering from back spasms, reportedly underwent extensive match-simulation sessions, including completing his bowling quota without discomfort. Rohit, meanwhile, recovered from a muscle strain sustained during the IPL season.

India’s assistant coach Sitanshu Kotak had earlier expressed optimism regarding the duo’s return, stating that the team management expected both experienced campaigners to be available for selection. Their clearance now strengthens India’s squad significantly ahead of the series beginning in Dharamsala.

Rohit’s return bolsters the batting unit with his vast experience at the top of the order, while Hardik’s presence restores balance to the side by adding a crucial all-round option in the middle order and pace department. The development is particularly significant as India continues to fine-tune its combinations in preparation for a packed international calendar.

However, concerns remain over the fitness of Virat Kohli, who is still recovering from a hamstring injury and is expected to remain unavailable for the Afghanistan series. With Rohit Sharma and Hardik Pandya back in contention, India will head into the ODI series with renewed confidence and a stronger, more experienced lineup.