Hardik Pandya all set to feature for Baroda in SMAT 2025 before South Africa T20Is - Reports

Ankitjit Singh is a Sub-Editor at Khel Now, known for his in-depth knowledge of cricket.

Published at :December 1, 2025 at 6:45 PM

Modified at :December 1, 2025 at 6:45 PM

(Courtesy : Getty Images)

Hardik Pandya last played for India in Asia Cup 2025.

In what has been the latest development, as per the reports in ESPNCricinfo, it is learned that Hardik Pandya is all set to feature for Baroda in the ongoing Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy (SMAT) 2025. The all-rounder will be playing the games on December 2 and 4, respectively.

This will also mark Hardik Pandya’s return to cricket, having been out of action since September 2025. The all-rounder suffered a left quadriceps injury during the final Super Four game of the Asia Cup 2025 against Sri Lanka. Then, after that, he missed the final against Pakistan, the Australia tour and the South Africa ODIs.

Hardik Pandya was at the (BCCI) Centre of Excellence (CoE) for rehabilitation since October 15 and spent a month there from October 21 to November 29. He recently also got the Return to Play (RTP) clearance and will make in comeback for Baroda in the SMAT 2025.

National selector Pragyan Ojha is expected to be in attendance for Baroda’s two games.

The reports claimed that national selector Pragyan Ojha is expected to be in attendance for Baroda’s two games. The selection committee is all set to announce the Indian squad for the T20Is against South Africa in the coming days and Hardik’s fitness will play a key role in him getting selected.

The reports claimed that Hardik Pandya’s availability for Baroda for further matches of SMAT will depend on whether and when he is called up to join the India squad for preparation. The T20I series begins on 9 December after the conclusion of ODIs on 6 December.

Hardik Pandya will be crucial for India in the T20I series against South Africa as it will be the second-last series for India before the ICC T20 World Cup 2026. The all-rounder would want to get back to his best in the series and head into the tournament full of confidence.

Coming to Baroda, they lost their opening encounters against Bengal and Puducherry at the SMAT but made a comeback against Himachal Pradesh.

When did Hardik Pandya last play for India?

Hardik Pandya last played for India in the Asia Cup 2025.

When will Hardik Pandya next play for India?

Hardik Pandya is expected to next play for India in the T20Is against South Africa.

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Ankitjit Singh

Ankitjit Singh is a dedicated sports journalist whose childhood dream was to play cricket—now, he serves the game through his work. With over three years of experience in reporting, writing, and editing, he brings deep insight to his coverage. A journalism graduate from Delhi University, Ankitjit’s passion for cricket took root during his college days and continues to drive his career.