hardik pandya why not playing

Hardik Pandya is not playing due to a quadricep injury he sustained during India's Super Four match against Sri Lanka in the Asia Cup 2025. He started bowling in the Sri Lanka game but left the field soon after due to the injury and did not participate further. Despite initial hopes he might recover, he was ruled out of the final against Pakistan. His absence is a significant blow for India as he was a key player both with the bat and ball, especially known for taking early wickets and bowling effective death overs. Rinku Singh has replaced him in the playing XI for the final match in Dubai. The injury has disrupted India's balance and strategy for the high-stakes game.