Pandya was expected to make the Indian squad after remaining out of action for four months due to a back injury but the all-rounder could not clear the mandatory fitness test, indicating that it will take him more to recover from the surgery he recently had.
The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) are expected to announce the Test and ODI squads for the New Zealand tour and the selectors are awaiting clarity on the all-rounder's fitness report.
"There isn't going to be too much of brainstorming with regards to the team. But a fit Hardik is a necessity. The moment NCA (National Cricket Academy) gives Hardik green light to play competitive cricket, he will be an automatic choice. So, the selectors will wait for a few more days," a senior BCCI official told PTI on the condition of anonymity.
Team India on Monday, travelled to New Zealand where they will be playing five T20Is, three ODIs and two Tests.