Chetan Sharma provides an update on Hardik Pandya’s return to the Indian team

On Saturday, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) announced India’s Test and T20I squads for the upcoming home series against Sri Lanka, which is set to begin from February 24. Notably, India will play three T20Is followed by the two-match Test series against Sri Lanka.

Rohit Sharma was named captain in the longest format while star all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja made his comeback to the Indian team. However, Hardik Pandya’s name was missing from the outfit.

Notably, in the recent past, Pandya had opted for a break from cricket post the T20 World Cup 2021 and made himself unavailable for selection in the Indian team across formats. But when exactly will he return is still a mystery.

However, BCCI chairman of selectors Chetan Sharma provided an update regarding Pandya’s potential comeback to the Indian team. Sharma said the Baroda all-rounder would be considered for selection immediately but only when he is 100 per cent fit.

“Definitely, Hardik was a very important part of the Indian team. But now, after the injuries, we’ll say that until he isn’t 100% fit until we get that information that he’s ready to go, is bowling and is match fit… when that comes in front of us, then definitely he’s an important player, and we’ll consider him immediately,” said Sharma during a virtual presser on Saturday.

Sharma also pointed out that the selection committee will keep an eye on the domestic circuit and give importance to the performances in the Ranji Trophy.

“You can ask Hardik why he is not playing Ranji Trophy. We are looking at those who are playing the Ranji Trophy and performing there. So we feel happy to watch the competition and see the boys perform,” Sharma added.

Pandya is likely to be seen in action in the upcoming 2022 season of the Indian Premier League (IPL), which is expected to start in the final week of March. Pandya will be leading the newly joined Gujarat Titans franchise.

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