Gautam Gambhir, the head coach of India, has emphasised how important it is for Hardik Pandya to get enough playing time prior to the 2027 ODI World Cup in South Africa. There are concerns regarding Pandya’s preparedness for the competition because he hasn’t played in any cricket since the Indian Premier League. The all-rounder’s continued fitness issues are evident in his absence from India’s initial World Cup preparations, which included the three-match ODI series against the West Indies.
Both Pandya and Jasprit Bumrah have been rested from the West Indies series; Pandya is not yet fit to bowl ten overs in ODI cricket, and Bumrah is abroad on Asian Games duties. Few clubs have a player with Pandya’s distinct skill set, the coach admitted. Both Jasprit Bumrah and Hardik will be crucial to our success in South Africa. Because very few teams have a player like Jassi or Hardik who can bat at number six or seven and bowl ten overs for you with that impact,” Gambhir stated.
Why Hardik Pandya’s game time before the World Cup is so important
As India gets ready for the World Cup, Pandya’s lack of recent cricket exposure has become a major factor. Due to his current state of health, the all-rounder hasn’t had enough match practice to reach his best form before the event. Pandya’s condition needs to be addressed right away through competitive cricket, Gambhir emphasised. Hardik in particular, as he also requires game time. as he hasn’t played much cricket since the IPL. He might be lacking in cricket if the emphasis is solely on the 50-over format, Gambhir continued.
Gambhir made it clear that there is a big danger involved in showing up to a World Cup unprepared. The instructor underlined that when competing at the top level, rhythm and match fitness must be compromised. Every athlete travelling to South Africa needs to be in top form. Going into the World Cup, the timing of the games will be crucial. You can’t arrive there uncooked. There are no ifs and buts when it comes to going to the World Cup, therefore you should have adequate game time and have a great rhythm,” Gambhir stated.
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It is anticipated that Pandya will return for India A’s one-day series against Australia A in Puducherry, which is set for October 6–11. Before he joins the senior group for additional World Cup preparations, this assignment will provide him the chance to improve his match fitness and restore rhythm. India’s official preparation for the 2027 tournament started with the West Indies series.
