Hardik Pandya to Skip India A Matches, Races to Ready for New Zealand Tour

Hardik Pandya has confirmed that he will not be part of the scheduled India A series, citing the need to concentrate on his preparation for the senior team's upcoming tour of New Zealand. The decision comes as the board finalises the itinerary for the tour, which is set to begin later this year.

Pandya, a key middle‑order batsman and handy bowler for India, will miss the developmental matches that were intended to give fringe players match practice. His absence underscores the pressure on him to regain full fitness and form before the high‑profile overseas assignment.

Team management and medical staff are reportedly monitoring his workload closely, aiming to have him match‑ready when the New Zealand series commences. The move also opens a slot for other emerging talents to feature in the India A side.

The India A fixtures will proceed as planned, with the board emphasizing that the series remains an important platform for upcoming players, even as senior stars like Pandya prioritize the senior team's commitments.