Hardik Pandya to miss Afghanistan ODIs with quadricep sprain

Hardik Pandya is set to miss the upcoming three-ODI series against Afghanistan due to a low-grade quadricep sprain.

It is understood that the premier all-rounder was at peak fitness and had been training hard at the BCCI Centre of Excellence since June 2. He was supposed to link up with the Shubman Gill-led squad in Dharamsala on June 11 but the late setback will keep him in Bengaluru for at least two more weeks.

"There has been a very late setback. He sustained a low-grade, mild quadricep sprain causing some tenderness. It’s nothing long-term, but medical staff advised him to avoid any strain or weight-bearing for the next few days. Hardik will continue to stay in Bengaluru, consulting with CoE physios and trainers during his recovery phase," a BCCI official tells TimesofIndia.com.

It now remains to be seen whether the thinktank names a replacement for the 32-year-old who was set to make his return to the format after more than a year. The team management has already been informed.

Some ODI squad members are scheduled to join the team in Mohali on Wednesday and will have an optional training session at the IS Bindra Stadium before leaving for Dharamsala on Thursday.