Mohammad Kaif says India need experienced bowlers for 2027 World Cup

Mohammad Kaif said India will need a strong bowling attack for the 2027 ODI World Cup because pitches in southern Africa are likely to favour batting more than in previous editions. The former India batter spoke at the Harris Shield opening ceremony in Mumbai on Monday. He argued that one player cannot win a World Cup abroad and that bowling and fielding must be sorted.

Kaif highlighted Mohammed Shami's record of 55 wickets in 18 World Cup matches, including three five-wicket hauls in 2023. He noted that Bhuvneshwar Kumar's recall after four years gives hope to other experienced bowlers. Kaif said a young captain like Shubman Gill needs experienced bowlers rather than an inexperienced attack.

India's pace bowling resources remain unsettled ahead of the tournament in South Africa, Zimbabwe and Namibia.