Overview
- India named a 15-player T20I squad for the Dec 9–19 home series against South Africa, recalling Hardik Pandya after his quadriceps injury layoff.
- Rinku Singh was left out and Washington Sundar was included, underscoring the management’s preference for additional all‑round options.
- Irfan Pathan linked Rinku’s omission directly to Hardik’s comeback and estimated the selected group represents 90–95% of India’s 2026 T20 World Cup core.
- Pathan also argued Hardik’s dual role as finisher and third seamer will be central to India’s T20 plans for subcontinental conditions.
- Mohammad Kaif backed the selectors, saying Rinku was the only realistic player to make way, despite his recent Asia Cup heroics and limited chances in Australia.