Star India all-rounder Hardik Pandya worked out in the gym alongside his girlfriend Mahieka Sharma, with the duo sharing glimpses of their session on social media. This comes ahead of the T20I series against Aiden Markram's South Africa, which is scheduled to begin on Tuesday, December 9, at the Barabati Stadium in Cuttack.The series marks Pandya’s return to international cricket, having been out of action since late September after suffering a quadriceps injury during India’s final group-stage match of the 2025 Asia Cup against Sri Lanka. As he gears up for the upcoming assignment, the all-rounder posted a gym-training picture, while Mahieka shared a video on his Instagram stories on Friday, December 5.Check out the moments here:Hardik and Mahieka Sharma (Image via Instagram-@hardikpandya93) View this post on Instagram Instagram PostIn addition to Pandya, vice-captain Shubman Gill has been named in the squad, but his participation depends on receiving fitness approval from the BCCI’s Centre of Excellence (COE). Suryakumar Yadav will continue as captain, with Jasprit Bumrah remaining part of the T20I squad, while Rinku Singh has been excluded.“Provides balance in this team” - Aakash Chopra on Hardik PandyaAs Hardik Pandya prepares to return for the South Africa series, former India batter Aakash Chopra noted that his comeback is significant because his presence brings balance to the side. Speaking on his YouTube channel, he said:"Hardik Pandya's return is significant because only he provides balance in this team. You play other all-rounders, Axar and Washi also play, but no one does the job Hardik does. He is the only player who allows you to play with just one pacer if it's a turning pitch. Him returning is a very good thing.”The 32-year-old has featured in 120 T20Is for India, scoring 1,860 runs, including five fifties, and has also claimed 98 wickets, with best bowling figures of 4/16.