India allrounder Hardik Pandya ruled out of New Zealand Test series as injury woes continue

The 26-year-old has not played any cricket since September having undergone surgery and his spell on the sidelines looks set to be extended

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Hardik Pandya has been ruled out of the New Zealand Test series as the India allrounder's injury problems continue.

The 26-year-old has not played any cricket since undergoing surgery on a long-term back problem in October.

Pandya had hoped that going under the knife would ensure he was fit for the two Tests, which take place in Wellington and Christchurch, and the Indian Premier League.

But having previously been withdrawn from the India A squad selected to face the Kiwis, he will not be considered for the longest format later this month.

The only appearances Pandya has managed since the World Cup were in the two T20s against South Africa last September.

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Speaking in December, the Mumbai Indians star was hopeful the early decision to go under the knife would ensure he would be available for a busy start of 2020.

"We decided to do the surgery now because we saw the future and thought this is the right time," he told news agency IANS.

"We thought this was the right time because even if I take four months, I will be coming back before the New Zealand series, mid-way actually.

"That was the plan that I play some international games, the IPL and then the World T20. The biggest concern was the World T20 which touch wood is now in place.

"I could have done the surgery a month later, but it would not have helped me in any way. I was feeling the difference in my back and wasn't able to take it."

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