Former India batter WV Raman believes Hardik Pandya could play a pivotal role in India’s preparations for the 2027 ODI World Cup, provided the all-rounder remains fit enough to contribute consistently with the ball.
Speaking to PTI Videos, Raman highlighted Pandya’s unique value to the Indian team, describing his ability to bat in the middle order and bowl a full quota of overs as a major asset in the 50-over format.
“I believe that he can be a terrific cricketer for the Indian team,” Raman said while assessing Pandya’s long-term role in India’s ODI plans.
Fitness remains the biggest concern
Pandya was initially included in India’s ODI squad for the Afghanistan series but was later ruled out because of injury. Raman said the all-rounder’s effectiveness in the lead-up to the 2027 World Cup will largely depend on his fitness and ability to bowl regularly.
“The flexibility he can provide if fit and able to bowl 10 overs is invaluable,” Raman said.
The former India player stressed that a fully fit Pandya offers balance that very few cricketers can provide, making him one of the most important pieces in India’s World Cup puzzle.
India should use next year for experimentation
Raman also urged India to spend the next 12 to 15 months experimenting with combinations and identifying their strongest squad ahead of the World Cup in South Africa, Zimbabwe and Namibia.
According to him, bilateral ODI series should be used to test players, define roles and build squad depth rather than focusing solely on immediate results.
India have won the ODI World Cup twice, in 1983 and 2011, but Raman believes the team management must address shortcomings in knockout matches if they are to lift the trophy again.
Strong pace battery gives India options
Raman praised India’s fast-bowling resources, naming Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Siraj, Arshdeep Singh and Pandya among the frontline options. He also pointed to emerging pacers such as Gurnoor Brar, Prince Yadav and Harshit Rana as signs of the country’s growing bowling depth.
The former batter also backed Shubman Gill’s leadership, saying captains should not be judged on isolated moments and that the young skipper is still learning and evolving in the role.
Raman further advised patience with teenage batting sensation Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, urging fans and experts not to place unnecessary expectations on the youngster at an early stage of his career.
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