New Delhi: Indian all-rounder Hardik Pandya will return to the Indian team for the Asia Cup 2025. Hardik last played for India in the ICC Champions Trophy. His all-round skills make him a valuable asset to the team but recurring injuries have hampered his career. With the upcoming T20 World Cup in mind Team India will closely monitor his fitness and performance as it would be difficult to include him in the squad solely as a batsman. Additional responsibility in bowling The UAE pitches may not be ideal for Hardiks bowling but his variations can trouble opposing teams. India could field him as a second fast bowler and even entrust him with the new ball in some matches. Hardik will need to be prepared for this additional responsibility. Hardik Pandya close to a record Hardik Pandya could make history in the T20 Asia Cup. In 8 matches so far he has taken 11 wickets and scored 83 runs. If he scores 17 more runs in this tournament he will become the first player in the world to achieve the double of 100+ runs and 10+ wickets in the T20 Asia Cup. Exceptional performance in the T20 format Hardik has consistently performed well in the T20 format. This tournament will be a golden opportunity for him to answer all the questions surrounding his place in the team and cement his position for the upcoming World Cup squad. Indias Asia Cup schedule India will play its first match of the Asia Cup 2025 against the UAE on September 10. The big match against Pakistan will follow on September 14. The final group stage match will be against Oman on September 19. If India wins two matches it will qualify for the Super 4 stage. Story Highlights Hardik Pandya to return to Team India for the Asia Cup 2025. Could be given additional responsibility in bowling. Hardik could become the first player to achieve 100+ runs and 10+ wickets in the T20 Asia Cup. India’s schedule: September 10 – UAE September 14 – Pakistan September 19 – Oman.