India’s squad for the one-off Test and ODI series at home against Afghanistan next month is set to be announced. Ahead of the announcement, fitness concerns around former India captain Rohit Sharma and all-rounder Hardik Pandya have emerged.
Rohit has been playing as an impact player in the ongoing Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026. The Mumbai Indians (MI) opener missed several games this season due to a hamstring injury he sustained during run chase against Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB). Sports Tak has learnt that Rohit’s participation in the ODI series is subject to fitness as he is yet to meet high speed running and fielding standards.
On the other hand, MI skipper Pandya has missed a few games due to back spasm. While the all-rounder was seen doing high-intensity training, his lower back stiffness is an issue. He is expected to get his Return to Play (RTP) in next couple of days if he attains full fitness. His participation in the ODI series against Afghanistan is subject to fitness as well.
Rohit is likely to feature in MI’s next match against against Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) at Eden Gardens, Kolkata, on May 20. But, there is a question mark over whether Pandya will make a comeback.
When will the ODI series begin?
Rohit and Hardik will have plenty of time to regain full fitness as the three-ODI series begins on June 14 in Dharamsala. The second and third ODIs will be played in Lucknow and Chennai on June 17 and 20 respectively.
How Rohit, Hardik have performed in IPL 2026?
Despite playing just seven games, Rohit is MI's fourth-highest run-scorer of the season. From seven outings, he has 268 runs at an average of 44.66 and strike rate of 164.41. He has two fifties in the season as well.
Hardik has struggled with both bat and ball. From eight games, he has scored 146 runs at an average of 20.85 and strike rate of 136.44. He has claimed just four scalps at an average of 61.50. His economy rate is close to 12 runs per over.