Hardik Pandya has been ruled out of the India A series against Australia A after suffering a shin injury, dealing a blow to the team’s plans. The all-rounder was expected to play a key role, but medical advice has sidelined him.

Mumbai’s Suryansh Shedge has been named as his replacement and joined the squad on October 4. Shedge, a pace-bowling all-rounder, has impressed in domestic cricket and now gets a chance to stake a claim at a higher level.

The India A series is seen as a pathway to the senior team, and strong performances here often lead to national call-ups. Australia A will test the hosts with a competitive squad.

The series gives fringe players a platform ahead of a busy international calendar. Team management said Hardik’s workload will be managed carefully to avoid aggravating the injury.

Shedge has been a consistent performer for Mumbai in domestic cricket, known for his ability to contribute with both bat and ball. The series also gives the selectors a closer look at backup options for the senior team’s all-rounder slot.