Gautam Gambhir, India’s head coach, has emphasised the importance of Hardik Pandya getting enough playing time before the 2027 ODI World Cup in South Africa.

Pandya has not played in any cricket since the Indian Premier League, prompting concerns over his preparation for the event. The all-rounder’s absence from India’s first round of World Cup preparations, including a three-match ODI series against the West Indies, underlines continued fitness issues.

Both Pandya and Jasprit Bumrah have been rested for the West Indies series, with Bumrah away on Asian Games duty and Pandya still unable to bowl 10 overs in ODI cricket. The coach admitted that just a few clubs have a player with Pandya’s particular skill set.

Why game time is critical for Pandya ahead of the World Cup

Pandya’s lack of recent cricket experience has become an important factor as India prepares for the World Cup. The all-rounder’s fitness status means he hasn’t had enough match practice to reach peak shape for the event. Gautam Gambhir emphasised that Pandya’s issue demands quick care through competitive cricket.

Gautam Gambhir made it clear that arriving at a World Cup without appropriate preparation entails substantial danger.

The instructor highlighted the importance of maintaining rhythm and match fitness when competing at the highest level. Every player travelling to South Africa must be in peak condition.

Pandya is anticipated to make his comeback in India A’s one-day series against Australia A in Puducherry, which is slated for October 6-11.

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This assignment will allow him to improve his match fitness and regain rhythm before rejoining the senior squad for more World Cup training. The West Indies series marked the beginning of India’s serious preparations for the 2027 event.

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