-1780734574723.webp)
- By Sunny Daud
- Sat, 06 Jun 2026 02:50 PM (IST)
- Source:JND
India star all-rounder Hardik Pandya has been left out of the squad as the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) announced the team for the T20I series against England and Ireland, along with the Asian Games later this year. Notably, Hardik is a part of India's three-match ODI series against Afghanistan, which will take place from 13 to 20 June.
India's schedule for Afghanistan ODI series
| Date | Match | Venue | City | Time (IST) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 13 June 2026 (Saturday) | 1st ODI (D/N) | Himachal Pradesh Cricket Association Stadium | Dharamsala | 1:30 PM |
| 17 June 2026 (Wednesday) | 2nd ODI (D/N) | Bharat Ratna Shri Atal Bihari Vajpayee Ekana Cricket Stadium | Lucknow | 1:30 PM |
| 20 June 2026 (Saturday) | 3rd ODI (D/N) | M. A. Chidambaram Stadium | Chennai | 1:30 PM |
Why Hardik Pandya was not included in India's T20I squad
After the squad announcement, chief selector Ajit Agarkar said the decision was made to manage Hardik’s workload and assess his fitness for ODIs. He added that the focus is on ensuring Hardik is fully fit for the 50-over format, keeping the upcoming ODI World Cup in mind.
"Main objective is to see if Hardik (Pandya) can play ODI cricket and be fit as there is also an ODI World Cup ahead" Ajit Agarkar told media.
Why was Mohammed Siraj not included in the Asian Games squad?
ALSO READ: Will Virat Kohli Play In England ODIs After Injury In IPL Final? Ajit Agarkar Shares Update
Apart from Hardik, seasoned pacer Mohammed Siraj will tour England and Ireland but will miss the Asian Games as the Hyderabad man will be playing the home ODI rubber against the West Indies.