why is hardik pandya not playing today

Hardik Pandya is not playing today because he is ruled out due to a "niggle" or injury. Specifically, he suffered a quadricep injury during India's last Super Four match against Sri Lanka. He bowled just one over in that match before leaving the field and has not recovered in time for the Asia Cup 2025 final against Pakistan. His absence is a big blow for India as he is a key all-rounder offering both batting depth and seam-bowling options. He has been replaced by Rinku Singh in the playing XI for the final.