Mani, Prasad, Anushka star in India A's 363 chase to seal series 2-1

Hardik Pandya, the Indian all-rounder, is set to miss three upcoming fixtures against Australia A in Puducherry due to recurring shin pain. This injury issue has now affected him on three occasions, previously ruling him out of both Afghanistan ODIs and T20Is. His fitness remains doubtful for the upcoming T20Is against New Zealand later next month.

The BCCI medical team has advised further rest following fresh scans, exacerbating the setback as it came just as Pandya seemed to be nearing a return. This timing is particularly frustrating as he was considered for a late inclusion in the Asian Games squad. With no physical activity advised for the next 10-15 days, the recurring nature of the injury is now more concerning than any single setback.

Currently training at the BCCI Centre of Excellence, Suryansh Shedge may replace Pandya for the India A games. However, his participation in the T20Is against New Zealand and subsequent ODIs is now seen as highly doubtful. The BCCI is cautious not to rush him back too early, considering his involvement in the 2027 World Cup as a long-term goal.