Hardik Pandya’s anticipated return to the cricket field in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy (SMAT) is a significant development ahead of India’s T20I series against South Africa. Unavailable for competitive matches since September due to a quadricep injury, Pandya will now represent Baroda in the domestic T20 tournament. His aim is to regain match sharpness and impress selectors, with a national panel member reportedly set to observe his performance. This tournament offers Pandya a crucial opportunity to prove his all-round capabilities and stake a claim for the upcoming T20 internationals. The South Africa T20I series kicks off on December 9th, and the selection committee is expected to finalize the squad soon. Pandya has been undergoing an intensive rehabilitation program since October.
