Hardik Pandya is all set to make his much-awaited return to international cricket as India take on New Zealand in a five-match T20I series starting Wednesday. The series marks Hardik’s first appearance in India colours since he suffered an injury during the Asia Cup last year, an unfortunate setback that ruled him out of several crucial assignments.
Now fully fit and back in rhythm, the premier all-rounder returns at a pivotal time, with the T20 World Cup firmly on the horizon. Ahead of the series opener, the BCCI shared a fun training-ground video that instantly went viral among fans. The clip captured Hardik lining up for a towering hit and politely asking spectators to move aside.
Head coach Gautam Gambhir, closely observing the session, couldn’t resist a witty remark. “Tum kaha aim kar rahe ho? North Wing?” he joked, questioning Hardik’s ambitious targeting.
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Hardik’s confident reply — “On the first tier” — summed up his mindset. Moments later, after he deposited one delivery deep into the stands, captain Suryakumar Yadav reacted in disbelief, asking if the ball had gone all the way to the second tier.
Sound On 🔊
Dialling up the intensity as #TeamIndia steps into T20I mode to take on New Zealand ⚡️ #INDvNZ | @IDFCFIRSTBank pic.twitter.com/RSE2DXLFXA
— BCCI (@BCCI) January 20, 2026
The light-hearted exchange underlined the positive atmosphere in the Indian camp. For Suryakumar, however, the upcoming series carries significant personal stakes. The year 2025 has been his most challenging in India colours, managing just 218 runs from 19 matches without a single half-century, while his strike rate has dipped to around 123.
A positional shift to No.4, to accommodate Tilak Varma at No.3, hasn’t helped his cause. Bowlers have increasingly targeted him with hard-length deliveries, and lingering concerns over his right wrist have only added to the pressure. As captain, Suryakumar will be keen to rediscover his authority with the bat while leading from the front.
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Selection debates continue to swirl as well. With Tilak Varma sidelined following abdominal surgery, Shreyas Iyer has emerged as a strong contender, thanks to his proven record against spin and leadership success in the IPL. His inclusion at No.4 could allow Suryakumar to move back to his preferred No.3 slot. Meanwhile, Ishan Kishan’s explosive form presents another compelling option, especially if India opts for a left-handed power-hitter at the top of the order.
