Hardik Pandya is set to make his much-awaited return to Team India in the upcoming five-match T20I series against New Zealand, which begins on Wednesday. The series will mark Hardik’s first international appearance since he suffered an injury during the Asia Cup last year, an absence that kept him out of several key assignments.

Ahead of the opening T20I, the BCCI shared a video from India’s net session that quickly grabbed attention on social media. The clip showed Hardik in a jovial mood, entertaining teammates and head coach Gautam Gambhir with his trademark power-hitting. At one point, the all-rounder even asked spectators in the stands to move aside as he prepared to unleash a big shot.

Reacting to Hardik’s confidence, Gambhir jokingly asked, “Tum kaha aim kar rahe ho? North Wing?” (Where are you aiming?). Hardik replied with a grin, “On the first tier.” Moments later, after one of Hardik’s towering sixes sailed into the stands, India captain Suryakumar Yadav quipped, “Abbey second tier pe maar diya?” (Did you hit it to the second tier?).

The series against New Zealand will also see the return of pace spearhead Jasprit Bumrah, adding further strength to India’s squad.

Hardik’s comeback is expected to bring much-needed balance to the T20 side, with his all-round abilities offering the team management greater flexibility in team combinations. His presence allows India to play an extra specialist batter or bowler, a luxury few teams enjoy.

Meanwhile, skipper Suryakumar Yadav will be keen to reinforce his aggressive batting philosophy while continuing to grow into his leadership role. Since taking over as India’s T20I captain in 2024, Suryakumar has guided the team to impressive results, with a winning percentage of over 72 percent. While his personal form had briefly taken a backseat amid the team’s success, the focus is now firmly back on leading from the front with the bat.

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