BCCI Tightens Fitness Rules for Afghanistan T20Is

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has reportedly decided to adopt a stricter approach towards player fitness following criticism over players returning from injuries only to suffer further setbacks. For the upcoming three-match T20I series against Afghanistan, Nitish Kumar, Jasprit Bumrah, Washington Sundar and Harshit Rana have been included in the squad. However, reports suggest that the players will be cleared to play only after demonstrating an exceptionally high level of fitness. The BCCI has reportedly instructed the Centre of Excellence to release players only when they are considered fully fit. Hardik Pandya, who has been recovering from an injury sustained during the IPL, has not been selected as he is yet to regain full fitness.

India will also have a busy schedule ahead, with the A side set to play a three-match four-day series against New Zealand A in preparation for the senior team's tour. New Zealand Cricket has announced the series as part of India's preparations for the two-Test series. The senior Indian team will also face New Zealand in a packed schedule featuring five T20Is, five ODIs and two Tests, beginning with the T20I series on October 22.