India ODI and Test captain Shubman Gill shared a crucial update on Hardik Pandya's comeback, admitting the all-rounder's absence has been a concern for the team management.
Gill spoke highly of Pandya's abilities and explained why he remains such an important player for India. He pointed out that very few cricketers in world cricket can contribute as a genuine fast-bowling all-rounder, offering options with both bat and ball.
The Indian captain also revealed that the team management has been in regular contact with Pandya and has held several discussions with him about his return. However, a series of fitness concerns have delayed the all-rounder's comeback.
Speaking to reporters ahead of the first ODI against New Zealand in Auckland on Tuesday, Gill said the team is hopeful of seeing Pandya return to action soon.
Shubman Gill Highlights Hardik Pandya's Importance To India
Gill believes Pandya brings qualities that are difficult to find in modern-day cricket. His ability to bowl at different stages of an innings, along with his batting skills, makes him a valuable member of the Indian team.
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The India captain particularly highlighted Pandya's role as a fast-bowling all-rounder, saying he can take the new ball, bowl during the middle overs and also handle the pressure at the death.
Pandya has not played competitive cricket since the IPL 2026 season. His return was further delayed after he suffered a shin injury ahead of the three-match ODI series against Australia A in October.
The all-rounder was initially named in the India A squad for the 50-over matches in Puducherry, subject to fitness clearance. However, he was advised to take 15 days of rest after picking up the injury.
Gill hopes Pandya will regain full fitness, get some match practice through domestic cricket and return to the Indian side soon.
Shubman Gill Explains India's Squad Rotation For New Zealand ODIs
Gill also spoke about India's decision to rotate players during the upcoming five-match ODI series against New Zealand. The India captain admitted that he would have preferred the team to field its full World Cup probables for all five matches. However, the tight schedule between the ODI and Test assignments has made it difficult to manage the players.
India will have a different squad for the final two ODIs, with several key players, including Gill, set to miss those matches to prepare for the upcoming Test series. Shreyas Iyer will lead the side in Gill's absence.
Gill stressed that both formats are equally important, especially with India's position in the World Test Championship (WTC) standings becoming increasingly competitive.
He added that the scheduling would have been easier to manage if there had been a T20I series between the ODI and Test assignments.
India Look To Strengthen WTC Position Against New Zealand
Gill also pointed to the changing WTC standings following the recent Australia-South Africa series, saying India cannot afford to overlook the importance of the upcoming Test matches.
The five-match ODI series against New Zealand begins on November 4, while the first Test is scheduled to start on November 19 in Wellington.
Jasprit Bumrah, who has not been included in the ODI squad, will return to lead India's pace attack in the Test series.
Gill believes strong performances in the New Zealand Tests and the subsequent series against Australia could help India improve their position in the WTC race.