Intro
Former India batter urges experimentation before 2027 World Cup campaign begins.
Chennai
Former India batter WV Raman believes a fully fit Hardik Pandya could be one of India’s most valuable assets in the build-up to the 2027 ODI World Cup, citing the all-rounder’s ability to contribute significantly with both bat and ball.
Speaking to PTI Videos, Raman said Pandya’s capacity to bowl a full quota of overs while remaining a powerful middle-order batter provides India with crucial balance and flexibility in the 50-over format. However, he stressed that the all-rounder’s effectiveness would ultimately depend on his ability to stay injury-free.
“I believe he can be a terrific cricketer for the Indian team. The flexibility he can provide if fit and able to bowl 10 overs is invaluable,” Raman said.
Pandya was initially selected for India’s recent ODI series against Afghanistan but was withdrawn due to injury concerns. His absence has once again highlighted the importance of managing his workload ahead of major tournaments.
Raman also urged the Indian team management to use the approximately 15 ODIs scheduled before the World Cup to test different combinations and identify the most effective squad structure. He noted that India’s repeated disappointments in knockout matches underline the need for a more experimental approach.
India have reached the knockout stages of the ODI World Cup on eight occasions but have lifted the trophy only twice, in 1983 and 2011. They were runners-up in 2003 and 2023 and suffered several semi-final exits despite strong campaigns.
According to Raman, bilateral series over the next 12 to 15 months should be utilised to assess both first-choice players and bench strength while clearly defining roles within the squad.
The former batter also praised emerging talents such as Sanju Samson and Sai Sudharsan, while highlighting India’s growing fast-bowling depth featuring Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Siraj and Arshdeep Singh.
Raman further backed captain Shubman Gill to grow into the leadership role and advised patience with teenage sensation Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, saying young players should be allowed to develop naturally without undue expectations.
