New Delhi, Dec. 1 -- India's star all-rounder Hardik Pandya is likely to make a comeback for India against South Africa in the upcoming T20I series starting from December 9. Hardik is set to play for his domestic side Baroda first in the ongoing Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy (SMAT) against Punjab on December 2 to assess his fitness.

According to BCCI sources, he has received clearance from the Centre of Excellence (COE) in Bengaluru to play.

With the BCCI set to announce the T20 series squad soon, the selectors will keep a close eye on Pandya's fitness and performance in SMAT.

Hardik's last appearance was for India at the Asia Cup, during their Super Fours match against Sri Lanka on September 26. He has been out of action since then owing to...