Irfan Pathan warns Hardik Pandya's injuries will affect selectors' confidence

Former India all-rounder Irfan Pathan has said that Hardik Pandya's recurring injuries will make it difficult for selectors to have confidence in his availability. Pandya has been ruled out of India's home series against West Indies with a fresh shin injury that has extended his time away from competitive cricket to four months.

Pathan said it was unfortunate that Pandya was getting injured without playing. He added that the all-rounder had suffered multiple setbacks during rehabilitation after a back stress issue and quadriceps injury in IPL 2026.

Pathan called for India to develop more fast-bowling all-rounders to provide cover. He identified Nitish Kumar Reddy as one player who could be given a longer run in the role.