In addition to highlighting the significance of veterans Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli in backing captain Shubman Gill, former batter Suresh Raina feels that India should prioritize finding a reliable backup for injury-prone all-rounder Hardik Pandya ahead of the 2027 ODI World Cup.
Speaking on JioStar’s “Follow the Blues,” Raina stated that creating substitutes for Hardik—whose ongoing fitness problems are still a worry—must be part of India’s World Cup preparations.
“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,” PTI quoted Raina as saying.
Nitish Kumar Reddy is an interesting option, according to Raina, who noted that the young all-rounder has shown notable progress in both areas.
“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.
The former left-hander also predicted that Rohit and Kohli would be vital to India’s World Cup campaign, stating that Gill will benefit much from their experience in high-pressure ICC events.
“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.
Former India captain Anil Kumble commended Gill for striking a balance between leadership duties and reliable batting performances.
“We have seen in the IPL that he has rotated his bowlers well, used his spinners at the right time, and handled pressure situations with clarity. His form with the bat has not dipped,” Kumble said.
With seasoned players like Rohit and Kohli surrounding him, Kumble continued, Gill has the ideal support network.
“They can guide him with field placements, bowling changes, and key tactical decisions. Shubman doesn’t have to carry the burden alone,” Kumble said.
Young pacer Prince Yadav’s participation in the ODI team was also praised by Kumble, who stated that the bowler had earned his chance with strong IPL and domestic circuit performances.
“His variety, cutters, slower balls and yorkers make him an all-phase bowler,” Kumble said, adding that young players should be given a sustained run to settle into international cricket.
After being chosen, players like Prince should be given ample opportunities to develop their confidence and make a name for themselves, Kumble continued.
