Gautam Gambhir Casts Massive Doubt On Hardik Pandya's 2027 World Cup Chances

Hardik Pandya and Gautam Gambhir (Source: AFP)With the 2027 ODI World Cup getting closer, India have started looking at the players who could form their core squad for the marquee tournament. Hardik Pandya remains an important name in that discussion, but his fitness has become a major concern.India head coach Gautam Gambhir has now provided an update that puts the spotlight firmly on Hardik Pandya's ability. Speaking after India's T20I series against Afghanistan, Gambhir said Hardik is currently not fit enough to bowl his full 10-over quota.Gautam Gambhir Wants Hardik Pandya To Prove His Fitness Before ReturnFor India, Hardik Pandya's role in ODI cricket is different from simply adding another batter to the team. His ability to contribute with the ball gives the side an extra bowling option and allows the captain to build a more flexible playing XI.Gambhir said Hardik Pandya currently cannot bowl 10 overs and has not played enough cricket since the IPL 2026.The India head coach also explained that the message given to Hardik was clear. If he can complete the India A series successfully and come through the matches without any problems, he could return to contention for both T20Is and ODIs.That means the Australia A matches could become an important stage in Hardik Pandya’s comeback. Regular competitive cricket will also give the selectors a better idea of whether he can handle the workload required in the 50-over format."Hardik at the moment, yes, he cannot bowl 10 overs and he hasn't played a lot of cricket since the IPL. So we don't want to push him into international cricket because international cricket can be extremely tough on your body as well," Gambhir said. Also Read: Hardik Pandya Out Of India’s T20I Plans"So if he plays that India A series, obviously he'll get some game time as well. And that was the clear message to him that if he can play that 'A' series and then if everything goes well, he can come back and be part of the T20s and the One Day squad as well." he added. Hardik Pandya's Injury Concerns Big Headache For India Ahead Of ODI World Cup 2027Hardik’s recent fitness issues have complicated his road back to international cricket. He missed matches during IPL 2026 because of back spasms and later suffered another injury while working on his fitness at the BCCI Centre of Excellence.The major question is whether Hardik Pandya can stay fit for a long period rather than making a short comeback.With the 2027 World Cup set to be played in South Africa, Zimbabwe and Namibia, India will want clarity about their all-rounder options well before the tournament begins.If Not Fit, Who Can India Pick In Place Of Hardik Pandya?India are already giving opportunities to other players who could fill the all-rounder position for the 2027 World Cup if Hardik is not available. Nitish Kumar Reddy is one of the names being closely watched. His ability to contribute with both bat and ball makes him a useful option, keeping the 2027 World Cup in mind.Shivam Dube is another possible option, as he provides considerable power with the bat and can bowl when required, although his recent role has placed greater emphasis on his batting.Also Read: Gautam Gambhir's Management Demands BGT Test To Be Moved Out Of MS Dhoni's City