New Delhi : India’s pace spearhead Jasprit Bumrah and star all-rounder Hardik Pandya are unlikely to feature in the upcoming three-match ODI series against New Zealand, with reports suggesting that the decision is more strategic than surprising.
According to a report by NDTV Sports, the Indian team management is considering resting both senior players as part of a larger workload-management plan, keeping an eye on long-term goals rather than immediate results. The focus, as per the report, is firmly on ensuring the duo remains fully fit for the five-match T20I series against New Zealand and the build-up to the ICC T20 World Cup 2026.
“There is no injury concern as such. The idea is to manage their workload and ensure peak fitness for the T20 format,” sources told NDTV Sports, underlining that the move is precautionary rather than enforced.
The report further notes that Bumrah has not played an ODI since the 2023 World Cup final, while Hardik Pandya last featured in the format during the Champions Trophy final earlier this year. With India entering a phase of heavy international commitments, selectors appear keen to avoid unnecessary strain on players who form the backbone of the T20 side.
If rested, the ODI series could open the door for younger players to stake a claim in the 50-over format, while Bumrah and Hardik are expected to return for the T20Is, where their experience will be crucial.
As NDTV Sports points out, the move reflects India’s evolving approach—planning ahead, not just for the next series, but for the next global title.
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