Hardik Pandya's Fitness Key to India's 2027 World Cup Success: WV Raman

Hardik Pandya's fitness will be crucial to India's chances at the 2027 ODI World Cup, according to former India coach WV Raman. Raman believes that if Pandya can maintain his fitness levels, he can provide India a major advantage in the tournament.

What happened?

Raman spoke to PTI Videos in an exclusive interview in Chennai, highlighting the importance of Pandya's fitness in the upcoming World Cup. He noted that Pandya's ability to bowl a full quota of overs adds crucial balance and flexibility to the side.

Why it matters for Hardik Pandya

Raman's comments come as India prepares to face Afghanistan in a series of ODIs, with Pandya's participation still uncertain due to injury concerns. However, Raman believes that the team management must use the next 12-15 months to experiment with combinations and define player roles ahead of the tournament.

What comes next?

India have around 15 ODIs before the World Cup, and Raman feels those games should be used to identify the right combination and address the team's repeated struggles in knockout matches. He backs Shubman Gill's development as captain, calling him a quick learner.

Raman highlighted the performances of emerging batters such as Sanju Samson and Sai Sudharsan, saying the selectors would have to assess not just run-scoring ability but also the players' ability to contribute in different situations. He also praised India's strong pool of pace-bowling options, saying they have been extraordinarily good in the white-ball format.

On the question of Rohit Sharma's future in the ODI side, Raman left the decision to the selectors and team management, while acknowledging the veteran opener's contribution to Indian cricket. He noted that Rohit is an individual who has done extraordinarily well in the format and is one of the greats of the game.

Raman's comments come as India looks to build a strong squad for the 2027 World Cup. With around 15 ODIs before the tournament, the team management must use this time to experiment with combinations and define player roles. A fully fit Hardik Pandya could be the X-factor that India needs to succeed in the tournament.