BCCI Issues Hardik Pandya’s Fitness Update After IND VS NZ ODI Squad Snub

In a major squad announcement on Saturday, January 3, 2026, the BCCI revealed India’s 15-man squad for the upcoming three-match ODI series against New Zealand. While the return of senior stalwarts dominated the headlines, the most significant talking point was the absence of star all-rounder Hardik Pandya, despite his explosive form in domestic cricket.

Hardik’s “List A” Fireworks Not Enough for ODI Return

Hours before the selection meeting, Hardik Pandya made a thunderous statement in the Vijay Hazare Trophy, smashing his maiden List A century for Baroda against Vidarbha.

• The Onslaught: Pandya blazed to 133 off just 92 balls, a whirlwind innings decorated with 11 sixes and 8 fours.
• The “34-Run” Over: The highlight was his decimation of spinner Parth Rekhade, where he clobbered five consecutive sixes and a four in a single over.

However, the BCCI medical team has opted for a “safety first” approach. In an official medical update, the board confirmed that the BCCI Centre of Excellence (CoE) has not yet cleared Pandya to bowl a full 10-over quota in a 50-over match.

“Hardik Pandya has not been cleared by the BCCI COE to bowl 10 overs in a match, and considering the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup to follow, his workload is being managed.” — Official BCCI Statement

Eyes on the T20 World Cup 2026

With India set to begin their T20 World Cup title defense on February 7, 2026, the selectors are unwilling to risk Pandya’s fitness in the longer format. Pandya, who recently recovered from a quadriceps injury sustained during the Asia Cup 2025, is expected to be a vital “fulcrum” for the T20I leg of the New Zealand tour before the global event.

The “New-Look” Pace Battery

In Pandya’s absence, the selectors have handed an opportunity to rising all-rounder Nitish Kumar Reddy. With Jasprit Bumrah also rested to manage his workload, the pace attack will be led by Mohammed Siraj, supported by Arshdeep Singh, Prasidh Krishna, and the high-flying Harshit Rana.

India vs New Zealand: ODI Series Schedule