Team India received a timely boost on Tuesday as star players Rohit Sharma and Hardik Pandya were declared fully fit for the upcoming three-match ODI series against Afghanistan. Both cricketers, who endured injury setbacks during the IPL 2026 season, have cleared fitness assessments at the BCCI’s Centre of Excellence in Bengaluru.

The development ends uncertainty over their participation and strengthens India’s squad depth ahead of the bilateral series, expected to begin later this week.

Fitness Clearance After Tough IPL

Rohit Sharma and Hardik Pandya missed several matches for Mumbai Indians during the recently concluded IPL due to fitness concerns. Rohit sat out seven games with a hamstring issue before making a strong comeback, scoring a brisk half-century. Pandya too battled niggles that limited his involvement.

Following the IPL, both reported to the BCCI’s CoE for rehabilitation. Sources confirmed they completed all required tests under the supervision of the Sports Science and medical teams. Officials have now given them the green light to return to competitive cricket.

Rohit’s Recovery Path

The former India captain’s clearance comes as a relief for fans and the team management. Known for his leadership and big-match temperament, Rohit has a rich legacy, including leading Mumbai Indians to multiple IPL titles and guiding India to major white-ball triumphs.

His recent return during the IPL, despite the injury layoff, showed promising signs. With the ODI series providing an important assignment before bigger challenges, Rohit’s experience at the top will be crucial.

Pandya Completes Demanding Sessions

Hardik Pandya, who arrived at the CoE on June 2 after a brief holiday abroad, underwent intensive training over the next few days. According to a source close to the development, the all-rounder participated in multiple match simulation drills and bowled his full quota of 10 overs without any discomfort.

“Hardik was on a holiday abroad before he checked in at the CoE on June 2. Over the next five days, he did several match simulations and even bowled (full quota of) 10 overs,” the source told PTI. His fitness parameters were found satisfactory by the strength and conditioning coaches.

Bowling Workload Boosts Hopes

One of the most encouraging aspects of Pandya’s recovery is his ability to complete bowling spells during training. This indicates he is prepared for the physical demands of 50-over cricket. As a genuine all-rounder, Pandya offers balance to the Indian side with his medium-pace bowling and explosive batting in the middle and death overs.

India’s assistant coach Sitanshu Kotak had earlier voiced confidence in Pandya’s progress. The latest medical clearance reinforces that optimism and gives the team management valuable flexibility in team combination.

Uncertain Travel Plans

It remains unclear whether Hardik Pandya will join the squad for the under-lights training session in Chandigarh or travel directly to Dharamsala, the likely venue for the series. Team officials are expected to finalise plans shortly.

Significance for Indian Cricket

The return of Rohit and Hardik comes at an important phase for Indian white-ball cricket. Afghanistan have grown stronger in limited-overs formats, and the series offers India a chance to fine-tune strategies and combinations. The presence of senior players like Rohit and Pandya will not only boost morale but also provide guidance to younger members of the squad.

For Rohit, this series could mark another step in his carefully managed workload management. Pandya, meanwhile, will be keen to regain full match rhythm and cement his place as a key all-rounder.

Local cricket enthusiasts in the host cities are eagerly awaiting the series, which promises competitive action. With both stars now available, India head into the contest with a stronger hand.

What Lies Ahead

The BCCI is expected to announce the squad and detailed itinerary soon. Fans will closely watch how quickly the duo integrates into the playing XI and whether their return translates into match-winning performances.