The Indian team management is optimistic about Rohit Sharma and Hardik Pandya joining the ODI squad for the upcoming three-match series against Afghanistan, commencing in Dharamshala on June 13. Both players are required to obtain fitness clearance from the BCCI’s medical team at the Centre of Excellence in Bengaluru.
Fitness Tests Pending
Rohit and Hardik were selected for the series subject to passing fitness assessments. Rohit missed a substantial portion of the Indian Premier League due to a hamstring injury, while the BCCI wants to verify Hardik’s ability to bowl 10 overs in an ODI match.
India’s batting coach Sitanshu Kotak addressed the media on Monday, stating, “I’ve honestly not got the news whether they have been cleared or not, but I’m sure they’ll be there. Whatever I heard, they are fine. But they have to go and do that fitness test or whatever the rule is. Before coming here, I have not asked the physio when they were actually going.”
Team Schedule
Kotak added, “The ODI players will join the team here and there may be a light practice day after tomorrow evening.” According to sources, Rohit was scheduled to visit the Centre of Excellence on Monday, while Hardik has been there since June 2.
The inclusion of both players is expected to bolster the Indian lineup for the series against Afghanistan, which serves as preparation for upcoming international commitments.
