India Announces T20I Squad for Australia Tour, Hardik Pandya Out Due to Injury
India has revealed their T20I squad for the upcoming tour of Australia, but there’s a notable absence: Hardik Pandya. The all-rounder is currently sidelined due to an injury he sustained just before the Asia Cup 2025 final against Pakistan. While Pandya focuses on recovery, Nitish Kumar Reddy has been brought into the team, along with Washington Sundar.
The core of the squad remains unchanged from the one that secured victory in the Asia Cup held in the UAE earlier this month. Suryakumar Yadav will lead the team, with Shubman Gill, the new ODI captain, serving as his vice-captain. Abhishek Sharma is likely to open the batting alongside Gill. The wicketkeeping roles will be handled by Sanju Samson and Jitesh Sharma.
Jasprit Bumrah will spearhead the pace attack, despite a quick turnaround from the West Indies tour. There has been some discussion about managing his workload, which is why he has not been included in the ODI squad for this tour.
India will compete in five T20Is against Australia, a crucial step as they prepare for next year’s T20 World Cup to be hosted in India.
Hardik Pandya’s Injury Update
Addressing Hardik’s absence, BCCI chief selector Ajit Agarkar stated that he is still on the path to recovery and will begin rehabilitation at the Centre of Excellence next week. Agarkar sees this as a valuable opportunity for Nitish Kumar Reddy.
“Hardik won’t be ready for the Australia series due to the injury he picked up before the Asia Cup final. We’ll have more clarity once he starts his rehab next week. This series provides a chance for Nitish Kumar,” Agarkar explained.
He also mentioned the importance of managing Bumrah’s workload, ensuring he won’t be overworked. “We’ve opted to rest him for the ODIs to avoid additional strain. We prioritize managing the workload of all our bowlers,” said Agarkar.
India’s T20I Squad for Australia Tour
- Suryakumar Yadav (C)
- Abhishek Sharma
- Shubman Gill (VC)
- Tilak Varma
- Nitish Kumar Reddy
- Shivam Dube
- Axar Patel
- Jitesh Sharma (WK)
- Varun Chakaravarthy
- Jasprit Bumrah
- Arshdeep Singh
- Kuldeep Yadav
- Harshit Rana
- Sanju Samson (WK)
- Rinku Singh
- Washington Sundar
India is gearing up for an exciting series against Australia, with hopes high for both new and returning players.
