• Source:JND

Former India batter Suresh Raina feels that India must start preparing a proper backup for injury-prone all-rounder Hardik Pandya ahead of the 2027 ODI World Cup. He also believes senior players Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli will play an important role in guiding captain Shubman Gill.

Why India need to groom Hardik's replacement?

Speaking on JioStar’s Follow the Blues, Raina said India cannot afford to depend only on Hardik, given his recent fitness concerns, and should have other options ready for the big tournament.

"Hardik Pandya has had several injury setbacks, which is a concern. By the time the next ODI World Cup arrives, India must have a reliable backup for him," Raina said.

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Who can be Hardik's replacement?

Raina pointed to Nitish Kumar Reddy as a strong young option who could fill that role in the future. He said the all-rounder has shown steady improvement in both batting and bowling.

"His batting has become more solid. He bowled with good pace and control in the IPL, and his fitness has also held up well. The team management will need to manage his workload carefully and give him consistent opportunities," he said.

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Why India should go with Rohit and Virat?

Raina also stressed the importance of Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli in India’s World Cup plans, especially for helping Shubman Gill in his first ICC tournament as captain.

"Both are proven run-scorers in ICC World Cups. They have won ICC trophies and know how to handle pressure in knockout games. For Shubman Gill, captaining India in a World Cup, having Rohit and Virat alongside him will be a huge advantage," Raina said.

India's upcoming ODI plans

Notably, India are currently preparing for the three-match ODI series against Afghanistan which will take place from June 13. India batting superstar Virat Kohli has been ruled out of the series after getting a hamstring injury, and Hardik will also reportedly miss the series. Hardik's last ODI outing came in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 final against New Zealand.


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