Gambhir urges match time for Hardik Pandya before 2027 World Cup

India head coach Gautam Gambhir stressed that Hardik Pandya needs sufficient game time before the 2027 ODI World Cup. Pandya has not played substantial cricket since the IPL and is not yet fit to bowl 10 overs in an ODI.

Pandya and Jasprit Bumrah will miss India's upcoming three-match ODI series against West Indies. Gambhir said both remain central to India's plans for the World Cup in South Africa but need match practice to maintain rhythm.

India face a congested schedule with the first Test in New Zealand starting November 19, only three days after the fifth ODI against New Zealand. Workload management for senior players may require selective rest during the white-ball leg.