Former Indian wicketkeeper-batter Dinesh Karthik has expressed doubts about Hardik Pandya's return to Test cricket, citing the all-rounder’s injury history and workload management. While there has been speculation about Hardik's potential comeback to the red-ball format, Karthik believes it will be a challenging task for the star cricketer to resume playing Tests, especially after being away for five years.

Hardik Pandya has not featured in a Test match since India's tour of England in 2018. During the off-season, however, he was seen practicing with the red ball, raising hopes of a potential return. Reports have even suggested that Hardik may represent Baroda in the Ranji Trophy, as part of his preparation to be considered for the Border-Gavaskar Trophy later this year. Currently, India lacks reliable pace-bowling all-rounders in Tests, with Shardul Thakur being the primary option.

Speaking on Cricbuzz’s HeyCB with DK, Karthik shared his excitement about the possibility of Pandya's return but remained skeptical due to the toll Test cricket could take on Hardik’s body

"Wow, that would be really good. Especially someone with his skill set—fast bowling and batting in Australia would be good. But to be very honest, I would be very surprised because I know his body; it’s not that easy for him to play Test cricket where he is today, so I again will be surprised,” Karthik said.

As Hardik prepares for India’s upcoming T20I series against Bangladesh, slated to take place in Gwalior, Delhi, and Hyderabad from October 6 to 12, fans continue to speculate whether the dynamic all-rounder will truly make a Test cricket comeback.