Hyderabad: India’s dynamic all-rounder Hardik Pandya has set his sights on returning to red-ball cricket, aiming to participate in the upcoming domestic season for his home team, Baroda. According to highly placed sources within the Baroda Cricket Association (BCA), Pandya is rigorously training with the red ball to earn his spot back in India’s Test squad.

Although Hardik was absent from the ongoing Duleep Trophy, cricket enthusiasts should not be surprised if he makes an appearance for Baroda in the Ranji Trophy, scheduled to commence on October 11. Notably, Pandya has been absent from first-class cricket since 2018 when he last represented Baroda.

Hardik, now 30, last played Test cricket for India in 2018 during a match against England in Southampton. Over his career, he has played 11 Tests for the national team, scoring 532 runs with an average of 31.29 and taking 17 wickets. These statistics underscore his potential and versatility as an all-rounder.

Expressing his commitment to reclaiming a spot in the Test team, Hardik has emphasized his dedication to intensive practice and hard work. His determination to excel in red-ball cricket reflects his ambition to contribute significantly to India’s Test cricket endeavors once again.