Gambhir: Pandya Needs Game Time for 2027 World Cup

Head coach Gautam Gambhir has identified Hardik Pandya's workload and insufficient recent match practice as significant considerations for India's 2027 ODI World Cup campaign. Gambhir stressed that Pandya requires adequate game time, particularly after the Indian Premier League, to be fully prepared for the global tournament. India's preparations for the 2027 World Cup are set to commence with an upcoming ODI series against the West Indies.

However, key all-rounders Hardik Pandya and Jasprit Bumrah will be unavailable for the initial phase of these preparations. Gambhir underscored the importance of both players for India's plans in South Africa, noting their unique ability to bowl 10 overs and bat effectively in the lower order. He specifically pointed out that Pandya's lack of substantial cricket post-IPL could leave him short of match fitness for the 50-over format.