The return of star all-rounder Hardik Pandya and fast bowler Harshit Rana to competitive cricket has been delayed by fresh injury and illness setbacks, according to a report in Dainik Jagran.

Pandya developed discomfort in his right calf during a match simulation on September 19. An MRI later showed very mild intramedullary edema, consistent with right medial tibial stress syndrome. He has been advised bisphosphonate therapy and vitamin D supplementation for six to eight weeks, Khel Now reported.

His rehabilitation will begin with low-load exercises before progressing to running, cricket-specific drills and full match activity. Pandya will miss the India A versus Australia A 50-over series starting October 6 in Puducherry and is likely to miss the New Zealand tour beginning October 22.

Rana, meanwhile, suffered a low-grade strain in his left quadriceps during a practice match on September 7. He was advised three weeks of controlled loading, but his rehab has now been delayed by a fever, sore throat and cold. The pacer is unlikely to travel to New Zealand and may instead target the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy for Delhi.