'He can bowl in every phase of the game' Shubman Gill explains why Hardik Pandya’s return will make India a more balanced team

India captain Shubman Gill has provided an update on Hardik Pandya's return to international cricket ahead of the first ODI against New Zealand. The all-rounder has been sidelined since the IPL 2026 season due to recurring injury concerns, with his absence affecting India's balance in the limited overs format.

Speaking at the pre-match press conference on Tuesday, Gill highlighted Pandya's importance to the team, particularly his ability to contribute with both bat and ball.  However, the India captain made it clear that the all-rounder would need to play domestic cricket before making his international comeback.

"Firstly, I think he (Pandya) is a great player. The qualities he brings to the team are possessed by very few players in the world. Having a fast-bowling all-rounder who can bowl in every phase of the game, with the new ball, in the middle overs and at the death, along with the kind of batting he offers, is extremely valuable," Gill said. 

"It has been very unfortunate that he hasn't been able to play since the IPL. Yes, we have had multiple conversations. He was supposed to play the India A matches, but just before that, he had some niggles again. Hopefully, he will be fit soon, play some domestic cricket, and then we will see him back in the side," he added.

Shubman Gill on Hardik Pandya's importance to India's ODI team

Pandya's absence has left India without an established pace-bowling all-rounder who can strengthen the lower middle order while providing seam-bowling options across different phases of an innings.

Gill believes Pandya's return would help settle India's batting combination, particularly at No. 7 and No. 8, and provide the team with greater flexibility.

"If Hardik Pandya comes into the team, then our number seven and number eight positions will also be sorted. We will look like a much more balanced team in terms of batting," Gill said.

The all-rounder's ability to bowl with both the new and old ball makes him a valuable option for India. His batting also provides the team with additional firepower in the closing overs, allowing the top and middle order greater flexibility in their approach.

Hardik Pandya's injury concerns and potential comeback

Pandya has not played competitive cricket since May 2026 and has faced multiple fitness setbacks during his recovery. He missed matches for Mumbai Indians during IPL 2026 because of back spasms before returning towards the end of the tournament.

During his rehabilitation at the BCCI Centre of Excellence, Pandya subsequently suffered a quadriceps strain and later experienced knee discomfort during fielding drills. Another setback followed when scans revealed an injury to his right shin, delaying his expected return to competitive cricket.

Pandya was named in India's plans for the India A one-day series against Australia A, subject to fitness clearance, but could not feature after the latest setback.

Gill's comments indicate that the all-rounder will need to demonstrate his fitness in domestic cricket before the team considers bringing him back into the international setup.

India begin ODI series against New Zealand

India will begin their ODI series against New Zealand on November 4, with Gill leading the side. The series provides India with an opportunity to assess their combinations as they build towards the 2027 ODI World Cup.

Pandya's availability will remain an important consideration for India's preparations, given the specific role he plays as a seam-bowling all-rounder.