Hardik Pandya, Jasprit Bumrah likely to miss South Africa ODIs
What's the story
India's star all-rounder Hardik Pandya is set to miss the upcoming ODI series against South Africa, starting November 30. The decision comes as he continues his recovery from a quadriceps injury sustained during the Asia Cup T20 in Dubai back in September. He had missed the final against Pakistan due to this injury. Pandya will first have to prove his match fitness for Baroda in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy before returning for the T20I series against South Africa and New Zealand.
Recovery update
Pandya's recovery and future plans
A BCCI source told PTI, "Hardik is recovering well from his quadriceps injury at the moment. He is at the Centre of Excellence doing his RTP (Return To Play) routines." The source added that "returning from quadriceps injury, he needs to build up his workload and straightaway playing 50 overs will be risky." Until the T20 World Cup, both BCCI medical team and Hardik would focus on T20Is.
Workload strategy
Bumrah's workload management and future matches
Along with Pandya, Jasprit Bumrah is also likely to be rested from the ODI series as part of a workload management strategy. The fast bowler has been on BCCI's radar since his serious back injury. He played Tests against England and was rested for certain series. The upcoming ODI series will be of little relevance with two years remaining for the 50-over World Cup.
Series
Key details of India vs South Africa series 2025
India and South Africa are currently embroiled in a two-match Test series. The Proteas won the 1st Test in Kolkata and now the teams gear up for the 2nd Test, starting Saturday in Guwahati. The ODI series will be a three-match affair. The 1st clash is on November 30 in Ranchi. The 2nd ODI is on December 3 in Raipur. The final ODI will be played on December 6 in Vizag. Thereafter, the two teams will play 5 T20I matches.