Auckland, Nov. 3 -- India skipper Shubman Gill highlighted Hardik Pandya's importance to the team, describing him as a rare all-rounder whose ability to contribute with both bat and ball makes him an invaluable asset.

Gill particularly emphasised Pandya's versatility as a fast-bowling all-rounder, capable of operating with the new ball, through the middle overs and at the death.

The Indian captain also expressed disappointment over Pandya's prolonged absence since the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026, revealing that the team management had remained in regular communication with the all-rounder.

He expressed hope that the all-rounder would regain full fitness, get some domestic cricket under his belt and return to the national side soon...