3 players who could replace Hardik Pandya for IND vs AFG ODI series

Team India have suffered a big blow ahead of the three-match ODI series against Afghanistan, with star all-rounder Hardik Pandya ruled out due to injury.

Pandya is one of India’s most important players in the format, as he contributes with both bat and ball and adds balance to the team. His absence will force the selectors to look for a replacement who can step up and fill the gap in the squad.

The right-arm pace all-rounder from Jammu and Kashmir, Auqib Nabi remains one of the strongest contenders to replace injured Hardik Pandya in India’s ODI squad. Nabi is primarily known for his bowling, and was in tremendous form in the domestic circuit. His heroics in the Ranji Trophy are well known, but he was equally good in the Vijay Hazare Trophy 2025-26 this year.

The 29-year-old picked up 14 wickets in just seven matches for his side. In the same season, he also smashed an unbeaten century against Hyderabad, becoming only third Indian player to score a century batting at No. 8 at lower in 50-overs game.