Gambhir Outlines Hardik's Gradual Return to Full Bowling Duties

Head coach Gautam Gambhir has offered a candid update on Hardik Pandya's ongoing rehabilitation, making it clear that the all-rounder's return to bowling a full quota of overs will not happen overnight. Speaking to reporters, Gambhir emphasized that Pandya's workload is being managed carefully, with the focus firmly on long-term fitness rather than rushing him back into a bowling-heavy role.

"He cannot bowl ten overs yet," Gambhir stated plainly, underlining that the coaching and medical staff are following a structured plan to build up Pandya's bowling stamina in stages. The approach reflects lessons learned from past injury setbacks, with the team management keen to avoid any relapse that could sideline the dynamic all-rounder for an extended period once again.

Selection Pool Widens Across Formats

Beyond the Pandya update, Gambhir used the opportunity to highlight a broader positive emerging from India's current selection strategy. With selectors simultaneously fielding three separate India squads alongside two India A teams, the coach sees this expansive setup as a significant advantage for the national program. "The bigger the pool, the better it is for us," Gambhir remarked, pointing out that having multiple teams in action creates more opportunities for fringe players to stake their claim while established stars manage workload and recovery.

This multi-team approach allows the coaching staff to closely monitor form, fitness, and temperament across a wider talent base, ensuring that India is never short of ready replacements when injuries or rotation policies come into play. For Pandya specifically, this depth means the team can afford to ease him back gradually without compromising on-field performance elsewhere. As India navigates a packed international calendar, Gambhir's comments suggest a philosophy centered on sustainable player management—prioritizing the all-rounder's complete recovery over short-term gains, while simultaneously nurturing a robust reserve of talent ready to step up whenever called upon.