Former India batter Robin Uthappa feels Hardik Pandya could still play a useful role in India’s Test plans, noting that the all-rounder would be a strong fit at No. 7 if he opts to return to red-ball cricket. Uthappa added that Pandya’s current fitness and skill set suit India’s approach to using pace-bowling all-rounders in the longest format.

Robin Uthappa explained that India’s recent Test selections have focused on adaptability rather than set roles, with players like Nitish Kumar Reddy, Harshit Rana and Washington Sundar used as per conditions and team requirements. He added on his YouTube channel that Hardik Pandya could easily fit into this flexible framework if he is prepared to manage his workload carefully.

“If Hardik Pandya were to come back into Tests at No. 7, it would be a great boost. Given the form he’s in, nothing is off the tabl it’s cricket, after all. If Hardik chooses to return to the longest format and expresses a desire to win the World Test Championship, I can’t see the BCCI standing in his way,” Robin Uthappa said.

Robin Uthappa sought to allay concerns over Hardik Pandya’s workload in Test cricket, highlighting that the demands on modern all-rounders no longer involve prolonged bowling spells.

“All-rounders aren’t being asked to bowl long spells anymore. Nitish Kumar isn’t delivering 20 overs, he’s operating closer to 12. If Hardik can bowl somewhere between 12 and 15 overs an innings, I believe he’s capable of handling it given his current fitness and the way he’s performing with both bat and ball. Ultimately, the call rests with him,” he added.

Hardik Pandya has not played Test or first-class cricket since 2018, having moved away from the red-ball format due to ongoing back problems. He has since concentrated on white-ball cricket, a decision that has helped him become a crucial part of India’s limited-overs plans despite periodic fitness issues.

India, meanwhile, have continued to shuffle their Test all-round options depending on conditions, turning to players such as Nitish Kumar Reddy, Shardul Thakur, Washington Sundar and Harshit Rana. Though limited, Pandya’s Test record remains solid, with 532 runs and 17 wickets from 11 matches.