Hardik Pandya set to return to red-ball cricket with Baroda ahead of domestic season

Indian all-rounder Hardik Pandya is preparing for his return to red-ball cricket as he gets ready to represent Baroda in the upcoming 2024-25 domestic season. A senior official from the Baroda Cricket Association (BCA) has confirmed the news, marking an important step in Pandya’s efforts to re-enter the Test cricket scene.

Pandya’s comeback comes at a crucial time, as India gears up for the Test series against New Zealand and the highly anticipated Border-Gavaskar Trophy in Australia later this year. The Mumbai Indians captain has been seen practicing with a red ball as part of his preparation for the T20I series against Bangladesh, which begins on October 6.

According to reports, Pandya is expected to participate in both white-ball and red-ball cricket for Baroda. The source further stated that his performance in red-ball cricket could improve his chances of being selected for the national Test squad ahead of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy in November.

Pandya last played a Test match in 2018 against England and hasn’t featured in the longest format since. His most recent first-class appearance was during the 2018 Ranji Trophy. Although he hasn’t been included in the Duleep Trophy this year, Pandya is keen to make an impact in Baroda’s first Ranji Trophy match against defending champions Mumbai, scheduled for October 11.

“If I want to play Test cricket, I’ll go through the grind and earn my spot,” Pandya previously stated, underscoring his determination to prove himself.

Pandya’s Test career includes 11 matches, where he has scored 532 runs at an average of 31.29 and taken 17 wickets. His first-class record is equally impressive, with 1,351 runs and 48 wickets in 29 matches. Now, with a month left to prepare, the Baroda all-rounder will be hoping to make a strong case for his return to the national Test team.