The Board of Control for Cricket in India announced the squad for the three-match ODI series against New Zealand on January 3, 2026. All-rounder Hardik Pandya was notably absent from the team despite his recent strong batting form. The BCCI clarified that Hardik has not been cleared by the Centre of Excellence to bowl 10 overs in a match. This decision is part of careful workload management ahead of the ICC Men's T20 World Cup starting in February. Selectors chose to avoid any risk of injury to the key all-rounder during this crucial phase.

Hardik demonstrated his batting firepower in the ongoing Vijay Hazare Trophy just days before the squad announcement. Playing for Baroda, he smashed a brilliant 133 off 92 balls against Vidarbha at No. 7. His explosive knock featured 11 fours and eight sixes, rescuing Baroda from 71 for five to post 293 for nine. In the 39th over, Hardik hit five consecutive sixes and a four off spinner Parth Rekhade, scoring 34 runs from that single over alone. Despite his heroics, Vidarbha chased the target comfortably in 41.4 overs, with Aman Mokhade scoring an unbeaten 150.

The absence of Hardik from the ODI squad has sparked discussions among fans and experts. While his batting remains world-class, his bowling workload remains a concern after previous injury setbacks. The BCCI statement emphasized that protecting Hardik for the upcoming T20 World Cup was the primary reason for his exclusion. This approach reflects a long-term strategy to keep him fit for multi-format demands. Hardik's recent century shows he is in excellent touch with the bat regardless of his bowling status.

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The three-match ODI series against New Zealand begins on January 11 in Vadodara. It will be followed by five T20I matches serving as final preparation for the T20 World Cup. Shubman Gill leads the team with Shreyas Iyer as vice-captain, subject to fitness clearance. Other notable absentees include Jasprit Bumrah, who is rested for workload management. The series offers India a chance to fine-tune combinations in limited-overs cricket.

Hardik Pandya’s current situation highlights the delicate balance between individual form and team strategy. His explosive batting continues to excite fans and selectors alike. However, the focus on bowling fitness and T20 World Cup preparation has kept him out of the ODI squad. This cautious approach aims to ensure he is fully available for bigger challenges ahead. Cricket enthusiasts will watch closely as Hardik builds momentum in domestic cricket and the IPL.

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