Star Indian all-rounder Hardik Pandya has recently been spotted training with the red ball, sparking speculation about a possible return to Test cricket. Since making his international debut for India in 2016 against Australia, Pandya has primarily been a limited-overs specialist. His last appearance in the longest format was back in 2018, and he has since focused on white-ball cricket due to recurring injuries and workload management.
In his brief Test career, Pandya has featured in 11 matches, scoring 532 runs, which includes a memorable century, and taking 17 wickets, including a five-wicket haul. His explosive batting and ability to bowl at a decent pace made him a valuable asset in the format, particularly for overseas tours.
However, a series of back injuries and subsequent surgeries have kept him away from red-ball cricket, prompting him to focus on shorter formats. Now, with videos of him practising with the red ball surfacing, rumours are rife that the 30-year-old might be eyeing a comeback to Test cricket.
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Reports suggest that Pandya could even play in some upcoming Ranji Trophy matches, contingent on his physical condition and workload management. The Indian team management is taking a cautious approach, fully aware of the physical toll that the longest format can have on the all-rounder’s body.
Former Indian wicketkeeper-batter Dinesh Karthik weighed in on the possibility of Pandya’s return, expressing excitement but also concern. “It would be great to see him back in the Test team, especially with his skill set, particularly in conditions like Australia. But I’d be surprised because I know the challenges his body has faced,” Dinesh Karthik remarked on Cricbuzz’s HeyCB with DK show.
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In Pandya’s absence, Shardul Thakur has been the go-to fast-bowling all-rounder for India. While Thakur has delivered with some crucial knocks and spells, his consistency with the ball remains a concern. If declared fit, Pandya’s comeback could add much-needed balance to the side, especially ahead of the challenging series against Australia, where his pace and batting prowess could be vital.
