Amidst ongoing discussions about Hardik Pandya's fitness and workload management, the possibility of his return to Test cricket has resurfaced, sparking debate among cricket enthusiasts and experts alike. Former India batter Robin Uthappa has strongly advocated for Pandya's comeback as India's No. 7 in Tests, provided his fitness and workload are carefully managed.
Pandya last played a Test match in 2018 and has since focused on white-ball formats, establishing himself as a crucial limited-overs player. A recurring back injury led him to step away from red-ball cricket, but Uthappa believes Pandya's current fitness levels and skill set make a Test comeback a realistic prospect.
"If Hardik Pandya returns to the No. 7 spot in Tests, it would be wonderful," Uthappa stated, emphasizing that Pandya's current form makes anything possible. He also suggested that the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) would likely support Pandya's decision if he expresses a desire to play Test cricket and aim for the World Test Championship (WTC) title. "If he says he wants to play and wants to win the World Test Championship (WTC), I don't think they will say no," Uthappa added.
Pandya's Test record, though limited to 11 matches, is solid, with 532 runs at an average of 31.29 and 17 wickets at 31.05. Uthappa framed a possible return as an opportunity for Pandya to "complete cricket," with the WTC being the only major title missing from his collection after multiple ICC white-ball trophies.
However, concerns about Pandya's injury proneness remain a significant factor. He sustained an injury scare during the Asia Cup 2025, suffering from cramping. While he has recovered and returned to the T20I series against South Africa, managing his workload is a top priority for Team India, especially with the 2026 T20 World Cup on the horizon. Consequently, Pandya is likely to be rested for the upcoming ODI series against New Zealand in January to ensure he remains fresh for the T20Is and the World Cup.
Former India player Parthiv Patel has also weighed in on the debate, suggesting that Pandya's body may not withstand the rigors of Test cricket. Patel noted that Pandya hasn't played a first-class match since December 2018 and that his body might not be able to handle the demands of four-day and five-day matches.
Despite these concerns, Uthappa argues that India's recent Test combinations demonstrate flexibility, with players like Nitish Kumar Reddy, Harshit Rana, and Washington Sundar being used intermittently based on conditions and team balance. He believes Pandya would fit into this evolving structure if he is willing to take on a controlled workload, potentially bowling 12 to 15 overs per innings.
The decision ultimately rests with Hardik Pandya. If he is willing to manage his workload and prove his fitness, the BCCI is unlikely to stand in his way, especially with the allure of the World Test Championship title. However, the all-rounder must carefully consider the physical demands of Test cricket and ensure his body can withstand the strain. His potential return could provide a significant boost to the Indian Test team, but only if he can maintain his fitness and contribute effectively with both bat and ball.
