Hardik Pandya Shot Injures Mohammed Siraj During India Practice Session

In a significant development ahead of the Super-8 stage of the T20 World Cup 2026, Indian pacer Mohammed Siraj sustained an injury during a team practice session. The incident occurred at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad on Friday evening, while according to team officials, the injury took place while the squad was undergoing its first full training session following a one-day break after the conclusion of the group stage matches. The Indian team is currently preparing for their high-stakes encounter against South Africa.

The Incident at Narendra Modi Stadium

The injury occurred during a high-intensity net session where Hardik Pandya was practicing his power-hitting. Pandya struck a powerful straight drive that traveled at a high velocity toward the bowling end. Mohammed Siraj, who was positioned nearby, was unable to react in time, and the ball struck him directly on the knee, while siraj immediately collapsed on the turf in visible pain, prompting an immediate halt to the practice session as teammates and coaching staff rushed to his assistance.

Medical Response and Immediate Impact

The Indian team's medical staff and physiotherapists reached the spot within seconds to assess the extent of the damage. Ice packs were applied to Siraj's knee to manage the swelling and pain. After a preliminary examination lasting several minutes, the medical team allowed Siraj to stand up. While the pacer attempted to resume his training drills after a brief interval, he appeared to be in considerable discomfort and was seen limping. The medical team is expected to monitor his condition over the next 24 hours to rule out any internal ligament damage.

Recurring Training Injuries in the Squad

This incident marks the second time during the current T20 World Cup campaign that an Indian player has been injured by a teammate during practice. Earlier in the tournament, wicketkeeper-batsman Ishan Kishan suffered a foot injury after being hit by a lethal yorker from Jasprit Bumrah during a session in New York. These recurring instances of 'friendly fire' have raised concerns regarding the intensity of practice sessions and the physical safety of the players during the business end of the global tournament.

Strategic Impact on Playing Eleven

The injury to Siraj comes just two days before the crucial Super-8 match against South Africa. However, according to team sources, the injury may not drastically alter India's primary tactical plans. The team management has been favoring a combination of Jasprit Bumrah and Arshdeep Singh as the frontline pacers. Depending on the pitch conditions at Ahmedabad, there is also a strong possibility of including an extra spinner like Kuldeep Yadav. Siraj remains a vital backup option, and his availability for the upcoming matches will depend on the final clearance from the medical department.